Copper Pheasant by Ohara Koson, 1900

Copper Pheasant by Ohara Koson (1900) captures the quiet poise of a long-tailed pheasant poised on a branch, its plumage rendered with exquisite delicacy against a softly luminous ground. Koson (1877–1945), a leading figure of the early 20th‑century shin-hanga movement, is revered for his kachō-e—bird-and-flower prints that merge classical ukiyo-e elegance with a modern sensitivity to light, atmosphere, and natural detail. Here, the artist’s refined line and subtle tonal shifts draw the eye to the bird’s silken tail and finely patterned feathers, distilling nature into a moment of serene stillness.

This listing offers a museum-quality fine art print of Copper Pheasant, produced on your choice of acid-free archival paper or artist’s cotton canvas. The Unique Maps Co. can create the perfect piece for your space, with a range of sizes from intimate to statement-making, plus custom dimensions on request. Framing and matting options are available, and we can personalize the print with a title caption or dedication—ideal for commemorating a special date or place.

Ohara Koson—also known as Shōson—was one of the foremost interpreters of wildlife in the shin-hanga revival, which refreshed traditional Japanese woodblock techniques for modern audiences. His works are celebrated for their meditative quiet and impeccable craft: crisp key lines, airy composition, and the ability to suggest wind, light, and texture with the gentlest gradations of ink. Collectors prize his prints for their timeless restraint and their ability to harmonize with both traditional and contemporary interiors.

The subject here is the Copper Pheasant, Syrmaticus soemmerringii, a species native to the forests of Japan. Koson focuses on the pheasant’s stately posture and elongated tail, framing the bird against a simplified, almost mist-like backdrop that heightens its presence. The choice speaks to a broader Japanese aesthetic—the reverence for seasonal change, the poetry of a single, observed moment in nature, and the elegance of leaving space for the viewer’s imagination.

Color is central to the print’s atmosphere. A grounded palette of yellow, green, and beige is enriched with earthen browns and a discreet touch of red that draws attention to the bird’s head. The artist’s use of negative space and delicate bokashi (tonal shading) allows the plumage to glow softly, while the diagonal branch leads the eye through the composition, balancing stillness with a gentle sense of movement. The result is a piece that feels calm yet vivid—an ideal focal point for rooms that prize natural texture and understated design.

A thoughtful, refined gift for bird lovers, Japanophiles, and admirers of printmaking craft, this archival reproduction of Copper Pheasant suits occasions from Christmas and Mother’s or Father’s Day to housewarmings, anniversaries, or welcoming home someone who has recently returned from Japan.

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.