Geese in Flight
by Ohara Koson
- Date:
- c. 1928–1930
- Medium:
- Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 23.5 × 24.8 cm
- Publisher:
- Watanabe Shozaburo
- Edition:
- Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
- Source:
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
Description
Geese in formation against the sky — one of the most classically Japanese of compositional subjects, the migrating flock a symbol of seasonal passage and the beauty of movement through open space. Koson's geese in flight prints, produced around 1928–1930, show his mature skill at rendering birds in motion: the overlapping bodies creating rhythm, the wing positions varied to suggest the dynamics of actual flight, the background managed to give maximum spatial depth without overwhelming the birds' silhouettes.
More Prints by Ohara Koson
Cat and Goldfish
c. 1928–1930
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Heron or Egret
c. 1900–1945
Woodblock print
"Snipes and Reeds," 1926 and "Wild Ducks and Pampas Grass"
Two woodblocks in colors (framed separately)
Magpie with Pink and White Magnolia Blossoms
Shōwa period, circa 1931
Woodblock print in "ōban" format; ink and color on paper
More Birds & Flowers Prints
Featured in Collections
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Frequently Asked Questions
Geese in Flight was created by Ohara Koson (小原古邨) in c. 1928–1930.
Geese in Flight was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (c. 1928–1930).
Geese in Flight depicts birds & flowers, landscapes, and animals.
Geese in Flight measures 23.5 × 24.8 cm (Oban format).