Swan and Reeds
by Ohara Koson
- Date:
- 1928
- Medium:
- Color woodblock print
- Format:
- Oban
- Publisher:
- Watanabe Shozaburo
- Edition:
- Published by Watanabe Shozaburo
- Source:
- Art Institute of Chicago
Description
A swan among reeds — the great white bird's body almost too large for the vertical composition, its neck curved in the characteristic S-shape of the mute swan at rest. Koson's 1928 color woodblock captures the swan's paradoxical combination of massive bulk and graceful form: the bird that is both the heaviest of flying creatures and one of the most elegant. The reeds provide a diagonal rhythm behind the swan's static presence, grounding the composition in a specific waterside habitat.
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
Swan and Reeds was created by Ohara Koson (小原古邨) in 1928.
Swan and Reeds was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (1928).
Swan and Reeds depicts birds & flowers, rivers & lakes, and animals.