Hawk hunting for hare by Ohara Koson, 1900

Hawk hunting for hare (1900–1910) by Ohara Koson captures a breathless instant in nature: a hawk stoops in a controlled, lethal curve as a hare tenses amid wind-stirred grass. Created in the early 20th century by the Japanese woodblock master renowned for elegant kachō-e (bird-and-flower—and animal) subjects, the print fuses meticulous observation with a dramatic, modern sense of staging. Its tall, vertical format intensifies the downward rush of the raptor, while the restrained palette and fine linework lend the scene a poised, timeless dignity rooted in the ukiyo-e tradition.

This listing is for a museum-quality fine art reproduction of Koson’s woodblock print, available on your choice of acid-free archival paper or artist’s cotton canvas. The Unique Maps Co. offers a range of sizes—including tall, narrow formats faithful to the original composition—plus professional framing and matting. Personalization is available on request: add a discreet caption, commemorative date, or gift inscription, and we’ll tailor margins and layout to suit your space.

Ohara Koson (1877–1945) is celebrated for refined wildlife prints that bridge classical ukiyo-e techniques and the fresh sensibilities of the early modern era. Trained as a painter and widely admired for his kachō-e, he distilled animal motion and character with uncanny clarity, elevating everyday natural drama into emblematic moments. His work resonates with collectors for its synthesis of lyrical mood, precise drawing, and impeccable printing craft.

This composition is especially notable for its taut narrative of pursuit. The hawk’s diagonal sweep contrasts with the hare’s low, horizontal form, a visual dialogue that heightens suspense and evokes enduring themes of impermanence and the cycle of life. The scene’s quiet background—suggesting mist or open field—keeps focus on the protagonists while echoing the meditative qualities prized in Japanese art.

Color and technique reward close inspection. Subtle bokashi (graded color) in the ground and sky gives depth and atmosphere, while delicate feather patterning catches light with near-scientific fidelity. Muted greys and beiges are warmed by soft yellow notes in the grasses, creating a harmonious, understated palette that suits both contemporary minimal and nature-forward interiors. The elegant negative space and rhythmic curves of wing and reed make this print a striking focal point above a console, sofa, or reading nook.

A thoughtful gift for art lovers, birders, and admirers of Japanese design, this refined print suits birthdays, Christmas, Father’s or Mother’s Day, housewarmings, and anyone recently returned from travels in Japan. It’s a graceful way to bring quiet drama, craftsmanship, and natural poetry into any room.

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.