Monkey and reflection of the moon
A hand-painted replica of Ohara Koson’s masterpiece Monkey and reflection of the moon, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Ohara Koson (1877–1945) was a prominent Japanese artist known for his work in the shin-hanga ("new prints") movement, which revitalized traditional ukiyo-e woodblock printing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Koson specialized in kachō-e, or prints depicting birds and flowers, but he also created works featuring other animals and natural themes. His art is celebrated for its delicate detail, refined composition, and subtle use of color.
One of Koson's notable works is "Monkey and Reflection of the Moon," a woodblock print that exemplifies his mastery of animal subjects and his ability to convey mood and atmosphere. The print depicts a monkey perched on a branch, gazing down at the reflection of the moon in a body of water. The scene captures a moment of quiet contemplation, blending naturalistic detail with poetic symbolism. The monkey's posture and expression suggest curiosity or introspection, while the moon's reflection evokes themes of illusion and impermanence, which are common in Japanese art and literature.
Koson's prints were primarily produced for export to Western markets, where they gained popularity among collectors during the early 20th century. His works were often published by Watanabe Shozaburo, a key figure in the shin-hanga movement, who played a significant role in promoting Japanese woodblock prints internationally. "Monkey and Reflection of the Moon" reflects the influence of both traditional Japanese aesthetics and the tastes of Western audiences, combining simplicity and elegance with a touch of narrative charm.
The exact date of creation for "Monkey and Reflection of the Moon" is not definitively documented, but it is consistent with Koson's body of work from the early 20th century. The print is widely regarded as a fine example of Koson's ability to capture the essence of his subjects while imbuing them with a sense of life and emotion.
Today, Koson's works, including "Monkey and Reflection of the Moon," are highly valued by art enthusiasts and collectors. They are featured in museum collections and exhibitions around the world, serving as enduring examples of the shin-hanga movement and the rich tradition of Japanese woodblock printing.
