Owl by Ohara Koson — Japanese Woodblock print, ink and color on paper, c. 1928–1930

Owl

Date:: c. 1928–1930
Medium:: Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
Format:: Oban
Dimensions:: 23.5 × 25 cm
Publisher:: Watanabe Shozaburo
Edition:: Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
Source:: Minneapolis Institute of Art

Typical Price

Large-format prints of eagles, cranes, and other dramatic subjects are among Koson's most commanding works. His "Pomegranate and Parrot" achieved $60,000 at Eldred's Auction in 2016. Christie's sold a bird-and-flower print for $17,640 in 2024. Premium subjects in excellent condition with early publisher seals attract the strongest bids.

Common later editions: $300–$1,500
Good lifetime impressions signed Koson or Shoson: $1,500–$5,000
Exceptional large-format eagle or crane prints: $5,000–$60,000

Description

An owl — most likely the Ural owl or the Japanese scops owl — perches in twilight, its forward-facing eyes giving it an expression of uncanny human-like awareness. Koson's owl prints are among his most atmospheric, the nocturnal bird serving as a natural vehicle for the moonlit, shadowed compositions he did best. Produced around 1928–1930, this print's combination of careful naturalistic detail with the atmospheric mystery of a night-active predator demonstrates his range across the spectrum from decorative charm to quiet menace.