Crow on a Cherry Branch 1910

Ohara Koson made this woodblock print of a crow on a cherry branch, but when exactly, who knows? You can see how he really embraces the process of art making with these simple lines and colors, focusing on what’s essential. I love the contrast between the sleek, dark crow and the fluffy, cloud-like blossoms! The artist has rendered the crow with such a velvety blackness, hasn't he? Notice the subtle textures suggesting feathers, and how the bird's eye catches the light. Then, your eye drifts to these delicate petals, floating like confetti. It’s a bit like a dance, the way the composition pulls you in different directions, creating a visual rhythm. Speaking of rhythm, this reminds me of those James McNeill Whistler paintings. Similar focus on tone and atmosphere, that feeling of capturing a fleeting moment. I think it’s cool to see how artists from different times and places can be in conversation, even if they never met.