Hen and two chicks in grass 1927

Ohara Koson created this woodblock print of a hen and her chicks, capturing a timeless scene of maternal care. The hen, rendered with detailed plumage, stands protectively over her two chicks, symbols of new life and vulnerability. Consider how the motif of a mother hen and her chicks resonates across cultures. In ancient Greece, hens were sacred to Demeter, goddess of agriculture and motherhood, embodying fertility and nurture. This archetype transcends geographical boundaries. Think of similar depictions in Roman frescoes or medieval tapestries, where the hen symbolizes domesticity and guardianship. The psychological weight of such imagery is undeniable; the protective instinct inherent in motherhood triggers deep emotional responses. The cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth is ever-present. Koson's print continues this rich tradition, subtly engaging our subconscious understanding of family and protection. The image speaks to our collective memory of familial bonds.