Carp 1900 - 1930

Ohara Koson made this woodblock print, titled "Carp," which depicts a fish leaping out of the water. The composition is strikingly simple: the carp dominates the frame, its body arcing upwards against a muted background of water and sky. The texture is carefully articulated through the woodblock technique, which gives a tactile quality to the carp's scales and fins. Koson skillfully uses the medium to suggest movement and vitality, as the carp seems to burst forth with dynamic energy. The waves below are rendered with a series of sharp, angular lines that contrast with the smooth curves of the fish. This interplay of shapes creates a sense of tension and release, highlighting the carp's triumphant ascent. Culturally, the carp is often seen as a symbol of perseverance and strength, reflecting the human desire to overcome obstacles. Ultimately, this print captures a fleeting moment of natural beauty and invites reflection on themes of aspiration and transformation.