Scops Owl in Flight, Cherry Blossoms and Full Moon
by Ohara Koson
by Ohara Koson
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.
A scops owl in mid-flight passes through a composition of cherry blossoms and full moon — three of Japanese art's most beloved subjects combined into a single nocturnal scene. Dated 1926, this [oban](/glossary/oban)-format print demonstrates Koson's gift for combining elements that individually would make strong prints into a single composition of heightened atmosphere. The owl's flight, the moon's disc, the drifting blossoms: each contributes to a night scene of quiet drama, the [bokashi](/glossary/bokashi) gradation creating the soft luminosity of full-moon light.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Scops Owl in Flight, Cherry Blossoms and Full Moon was created by Ohara Koson (小原古邨) in Shōwa period, 1926.
Scops Owl in Flight, Cherry Blossoms and Full Moon uses Bokashi, on woodblock print in "ōban" format; ink and color on paper.
Scops Owl in Flight, Cherry Blossoms and Full Moon was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (Shōwa period, 1926).
Scops Owl in Flight, Cherry Blossoms and Full Moon depicts birds & flowers, cherry blossoms, and moonlight.
Scops Owl in Flight, Cherry Blossoms and Full Moon measures 36.4 × 24.1 cm (Oban format).
