“Hen and Two Chicks in Grass,” executed by the esteemed artist Ohara Koson circa 1927, epitomizes the Shin-hanga art movement in Japan. Composed on paper, this piece falls within the wildlife painting genre, capturing the tranquil yet detailed essence of avian life in its natural habitat.
In the artwork, a hen and her two chicks are depicted amidst a subtle setting of grass. The hen stands protectively over its young, illustrated with meticulous detail that highlights the texture of their feathers. The mother hen, with its prominent red comb, appears vigilant and nurturing, while the chicks, one standing close to the hen and the other exploring nearby, exude an air of innocence and curiosity. The background features simple, delicate grass stalks that provide a serene backdrop, allowing the viewer to focus on the intimate family scene in the foreground. The composition is a harmonious blend of natural colors and understated detail, characteristic of Koson’s mastery in wildlife portrayal.
