Ohara Koson Japanese Fine Art Print, Two peacocks on tree branch

Ohara Koson Two Peacocks on Tree Branch Print

Two Peacocks on Tree Branch is one of Ohara Koson's most decorative bird compositions. Two blue peacocks perch together on a tree branch, their elaborate tails and patterned plumage set against a rich warm orange background.

The vertical design allows Koson to emphasise both the upright elegance of the birds and the graceful downward movement of their tail feathers.

A Decorative Japanese Peacock Print

Peacocks offered Koson a very different artistic challenge from the sparrows, crows and owls that appear elsewhere in his work.

Their elaborate plumage naturally encourages pattern and ornament. Koson nevertheless avoids allowing the feathers to overwhelm the composition.

The birds remain clearly defined against the comparatively simple background, while the tree branch creates a strong natural support across the image.

Blue Plumage Against Orange

The colour relationship is one of the defining features of this print.

Cool blue plumage contrasts with the warm orange field behind the birds, giving the image considerably more decorative intensity than many of Koson's subdued grey and cream nature prints.

Repeated feather markings introduce fine surface detail, while the broad areas of background colour keep the overall composition clear and graphic.

Japanese Kachō-ga and Decorative Design

Two Peacocks on Tree Branch belongs to Koson's wider exploration of kachō-ga, the Japanese tradition of bird-and-flower pictures.

Although the natural appearance of the birds is carefully observed, Koson organises the composition with a designer's eye. Curves of feathers, branch and tail create a controlled rhythm that guides the viewer from the upper birds towards the lower part of the print.

About Ohara Koson

Ohara Koson (1877–1945) was one of the most prolific Japanese designers of bird-and-flower prints in the modern era.

He worked with several publishers during his career, including Matsuki Heikichi, who published this peacock design. From the 1920s Koson also worked with Watanabe Shōzaburō, producing prints under the artist name Shōson.

His reputation rests on his ability to combine delicate observation of wildlife with carefully controlled colour and composition.

Displaying Two Peacocks

The richer colour makes this Koson design particularly effective where a stronger decorative focal point is wanted.

It works beautifully against neutral, blue-grey, deep green and warm-toned walls and is well suited to dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms and hallways.

For a coordinated Japanese bird display, combine it with Koson's Mandarin Ducks, Swallows and Wisteria or one of his quieter owl designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Two Peacocks on Tree Branch created?

The design is generally dated between 1900 and 1930.

Who published the original print?

The Rijksmuseum records Matsuki Heikichi of Tokyo as the publisher.

What colours dominate the artwork?

The composition contrasts predominantly blue peacocks with a warm orange background.

What technique did Koson use?

The original artwork was produced as a Japanese colour woodblock print.

Which rooms suit this Koson peacock print?

Its vertical form and stronger colour make it suitable for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways and decorative gallery walls.

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Ready to hang canvas panels are stretched on 1.5 inch deep solid pine frames from sustainable forestry sources. The image is mirrored on all 4 sides to give an aesthetically pleasing finish.

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