Ohara Koson (1877–1945) is remembered above all for his birds and flowers, but he also designed figure scenes like this one, made during the shin-hanga revival of traditional Japanese printmaking. Two women move through falling rain beneath umbrellas, their robes and the slanting lines of the downpour forming the whole drama of the image.
The rain is rendered as fine parallel strokes cut into the block, a device Japanese printmakers used to make weather visible. Flat areas of colour describe the figures and umbrellas, while a soft graded sky sets the mood. The restraint is deliberate: a few elements, carefully balanced, carry the feeling of a wet evening.
Hung indoors, the print brings a contemplative, slightly melancholy note that suits quieter rooms. It pairs naturally with soft greys, muted blues, and pale wood, and rewards a spot where it can be looked at slowly rather than passed by.
This is a gallery-style edition. On fine-art paper and framed prints, . . . Read More >>
Ohara Koson (1877–1945) is remembered above all for his birds and flowers, but he also designed figure scenes like this one, made during the shin-hanga revival of traditional Japanese printmaking. Two women move through falling rain beneath umbrellas, their robes and the slanting lines of the downpour forming the whole drama of the image.
The rain is rendered as fine parallel strokes cut into the block, a device Japanese printmakers used to make weather visible. Flat areas of colour describe the figures and umbrellas, while a soft graded sky sets the mood. The restraint is deliberate: a few elements, carefully balanced, carry the feeling of a wet evening.
Hung indoors, the print brings a contemplative, slightly melancholy note that suits quieter rooms. It pairs naturally with soft greys, muted blues, and pale wood, and rewards a spot where it can be looked at slowly rather than passed by.
This is a gallery-style edition. On fine-art paper and framed prints, a wide printed border surrounds the image in the manner of a museum mat, holding the same proportion whether the sheet is small or large. The canvas edition is stretched over a solid wooden frame instead, and hangs without a border or additional framing. Each version is produced in Europe to order.
Frequently asked questions
What scene does this print depict?
Two women walking through falling rain under umbrellas, a quiet figure study by Ohara Koson.
How is the rain depicted?
As fine parallel lines cut into the woodblock, a traditional Japanese way of making rainfall visible in print.
Who was the artist?
Ohara Koson (1877–1945), a Japanese printmaker of the shin-hanga movement, best known for bird-and-flower works but also a designer of figure scenes.
What mood does it bring to a room?
A contemplative, gently melancholy atmosphere that suits calm interiors and soft, muted colour schemes.
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Japan historical period: Showa 昭和 (1926-1989)
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#Bijin-Ga
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#Kimono
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#Rain
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#Ukiyo-E
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#Umbrella
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#Willow Tree
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#Women
