The artwork entitled “Grasshoppers on Rice Plants,” created by Ohara Koson around 1910, is a traditional Japanese piece rendered on paper. Belonging to the Shin-hanga art movement, this wildlife painting measures 34.3 x 18.7 cm.
The artwork depicts a delicate and serene scene of nature, featuring rice plants in their natural habitat. Two grasshoppers are skillfully illustrated amidst the gentle stalks and grains of the rice plants. The primary grasshopper is showcased prominently on a taller stalk, while another is subtly present in the lower portion of the composition, creating a balanced and tranquil scene. The color palette is muted and harmonious, emphasizing the natural setting and simplicity that characterize Shin-hanga works. The fine details in the rendering of the grasshoppers and the rice plants demonstrate Koson’s keen observation and artistic finesse in capturing the essence of wildlife.