Carp Leaping
by Ohara Koson
- Date:
- c. 1928–1930
- Medium:
- Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 33.3 × 24.1 cm
- Publisher:
- Watanabe Shozaburo
by Ohara Koson
Koson's vast output of ~450 designs spans birds, flowers, fish, insects, and occasional landscapes. While his large production keeps most prints accessible, early Kokkeido-period impressions with muted, elegant Meiji-era coloring are distinctly more sought after than the brighter later Watanabe editions.
A carp launches itself from the water in a powerful arc — the leap a reference to the legend of carp ascending the Yellow River's Dragon Gate to become dragons, a symbol of ambition and transformation. Koson's leaping carp composition freezes a moment of pure physical energy, the fish's body describing a curve against the spray and turbulence of its effort. Produced around 1928–1930, this print shows his ability to capture dynamic motion with the same facility he brought to static poses.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Carp Leaping was created by Ohara Koson (小原古邨) in c. 1928–1930.
Carp Leaping was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (c. 1928–1930).
Carp Leaping depicts fish and animals.
Carp Leaping measures 33.3 × 24.1 cm (Oban format).
