Koson 小原古邨 : Two Deer and the Floating Torii of Miyajima Shrine 厳島

Artist: Ohara Koson 古邨 (1877-1945)

Title: Two Deer and the Floating Torii of Miyajima Shrine Beneath the Full Moon 厳島  Date: ca. 1910

Poetic view of a pair of deer–an antlered stag and a doe-which are shown posed in silhouette on the shore beneath a glowing full moon in one of Japan’s most famously scenic locations. The buck seems to be transfixed at the sight of the famous floating torii of Miyajima Shrine, which is located on the island of Itsukushima. To the right is a stone lantern, anchoring the image. In terms of colors, the moon is a rich yellow, and its reflection on the water is a soft white. We cannot see the colors on the vermilion shrine, nor on any other aspect of the print, as would be the case if we were there in person, enjoying the scene in the moonlight alongside the deer. The water does have a very soft blue hue.  This is a surprisingly lyrical and effective design for its size. These works published by Kokkeido (Akiyama Buemon) are some of Koson’s earliest and most scarce designs. First, and only edition.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition. Mint.
Dimensions: 13 x 37.2 cm Publisher:  Kokkeido (Akiyama Buemon)
Seal: Koson  Signature: Koson

References: Crows, Cranes and Camellias (2010), catalog 28 and checklist K44.3.

SKU: KOS252