Vogel in neerwaartse vlucht 1900 - 1930

This print, "Vogel in neerwaartse vlucht," was made by Ohara Koson, probably in the early 20th century. Look closely, and you’ll see how Koson captured the bird’s flight with such simple means, how the printmaking process itself is laid bare. I love how the vines and leaves up in the top corner hang down into the image, it feels like the bird is just flying into the frame, a fleeting presence. The texture of the paper adds this depth, doesn’t it? And the colors, those earthy, muted tones, they give the scene a quiet feel, like a stolen moment in nature. I am drawn to the gentle slope of the bird’s wings, they seem to echo the curve of the vine stems, creating a subtle harmony. Koson was so productive, but I am put in mind of the prints of Hiroshige, who like Koson, embraced this sense of peaceful observation.