Blue Irises by Ohara Koson, 1900

Blue Irises by Ohara Koson introduces the serene elegance of early 20th-century Japanese printmaking. Created around 1900 by Koson (1877–1945)—a leading figure of the shin-hanga revival—this woodblock print distills the essence of spring into a poised study of blooming irises. Rooted in the Ukiyo-e tradition yet refreshed with shin-hanga’s naturalism, the composition places tall, tapering leaves and velvety blue petals against a soft, neutral field, drawing the eye to every carefully carved curve and line.

This listing offers a meticulously produced fine art print by The Unique Maps Co., available on acid-free archival paper or artist’s cotton canvas. Choose from a range of sizes to suit your space, with optional framing in gallery-quality finishes. We also offer personalized touches—custom captions, commemorative dates, and gift notes—along with bespoke sizing to ensure a perfect fit for your home or studio.

Ohara Koson, who also worked under the names Shōson and Hōson, is renowned for kachō-ga—bird-and-flower subjects that blend lyrical observation with exquisite craftsmanship. Working at the height of the shin-hanga movement, he helped re-energize traditional woodblock printing by pairing time-honored carving and printing techniques with a fresh, naturalistic gaze. The result is work that feels both classic and quietly modern, beloved by collectors for its grace and immediacy.

Blue Irises is a quintessential subject in Japanese art: seasonal, symbolic, and deeply evocative. In Japanese culture, irises are associated with renewal and protection, their blade-like leaves long thought to ward off misfortune during spring festivals. Here, Koson emphasizes the sculptural forms of the flowers—upright, assured, and slightly asymmetric—letting their rhythm lead the composition. The restrained setting amplifies the sense of stillness, offering a contemplative pause that suits both traditional and contemporary interiors.

The palette is a masterclass in simplicity: deep, cool blues for the petals; muted, silvery greens for the leaves; and a warm, beige ground that allows the florals to breathe. Subtle gradations (bokashi) soften edges and imply depth without shading for its own sake, while the clean, flowing contours reveal the precision of the block carvers and printers who brought Koson’s design to life. Minimalist yet richly tactile, this print complements neutral schemes and adds a refined note to Japandi, modern rustic, or classic decor. It’s a timeless choice for anyone drawn to botanical art and the meditative beauty of nature.

This fine art print makes an elegant gift—perfect for a housewarming, birthday, Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, a holiday like Christmas, or for someone who treasures Japanese art and garden blooms. It’s also a thoughtful present for a loved one who has recently traveled to Japan, bringing the quiet poetry of the iris season into their everyday space.

If you're not sure what size to order, or you're looking for a custom order of some kind – a different size, a different colour, a special frame – then please contact me. I usually respond within a few minutes.

You can see an example of my fine art personalisation service in the fifth image. Zoom in and take a look. My personalised artwork is always very well received. Take a look at more examples of personalisation.

You can also choose to age your art print to make it look older. This is popular amongst my customers who want their artwork to look like an older, antique print. You can see an example of ageing in the sixth product image, or go ahead and check out lots of examples of other aged artwork.

This artwork is taller than most, which would make it a perfect statement piece in a panelled room, on a gallery wall, or perhaps alongside another tall piece of art or furniture.

I can print and frame this beautiful piece of art at sizes up to 3 metres (10ft). If you are looking for a size or framing option that isn't available online, please get in touch.

This artwork is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. My standard frames come in six colours (black, dark brown, dark grey, antique gold, oak and white), and custom framing is available for an additional charge. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.