The artwork titled “Kingfisher,” created by Ohara Koson around 1910 in Japan, is executed on paper. It belongs to the Shin-hanga art movement and falls under the genre of wildlife painting.
The artwork depicts a single kingfisher bird perched on a tree stump, meticulously illustrated with vibrant and delicate brush strokes. The kingfisher, characterized by its vivid colors and keen expression, gazes downwards, suggesting it might be searching the water below for prey. The background is a subtle blend of muted tones, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere and highlighting the natural beauty of the setting. Leaves and branches drape from the top, adding an element of graceful movement, while the water surface below is adorned with floating leaves and flowers, contributing to the serene and harmonious composition. This piece exemplifies the refined and detailed nature typical of the Shin-hanga movement and Ohara Koson’s commitment to capturing the essence of wildlife.
