Plum blossom and full moon 1900 - 1936

Ohara Koson made this woodblock print, Plum Blossom and Full Moon, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century. It’s a beautiful demonstration of the artist's process. The careful consideration of color, along with the subtle blending and gradations, show us the hand of the artist at work. Look closely, and you'll see how the textures of the wood grain add depth and dimension to the piece. The way the light filters through the branches, creating delicate shadows on the petals, shows a mastery of the medium. The placement of each plum blossom is so intentional, so precise, that it creates a sense of balance. Notice the moon, how it creates a soft, ethereal glow that complements the delicate blossoms. Koson's work reminds me of Whistler's paintings, particularly in its focus on atmosphere and mood. Like Whistler, Koson was interested in creating a sense of harmony and balance in his work, and he often used subtle colors and delicate brushstrokes to achieve this effect.