Three Ducks in Shallow Water with Reed by Ohara Koson, 1900

Three ducks in shallow water with reed by Ohara Koson introduces a quiet moment from nature with the grace and refinement that made the artist a master of kachō-ga, Japan’s bird-and-flower tradition. Designed in the early 20th century, this woodblock print distills a timeless scene: three waterfowl gliding through a shallow pool as reeds sway nearby. Rooted in the Ukiyo-e lineage yet aligned with the shin-hanga revival, Koson’s composition favors stillness over drama, inviting the viewer to linger on delicate linework and luminous, natural color.

This listing is for a museum-quality fine art reproduction 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, custom borders or margins, and personalized touches such as gift notes or bespoke sizing to complete a ready-to-hang presentation.

Ohara Koson (1877–1945), also known by the art names Shoson and Hoson, was celebrated for exquisitely observed prints of birds and wildlife. Working in the late Meiji and Taishō eras, he helped carry traditional woodblock craftsmanship into the modern age. His prints are prized for their serenity and precision—hallmarks that made his work popular both in Japan and abroad.

In this design, three ducks navigate a still surface punctuated by reeds, a classic subject that speaks to the Japanese appreciation for seasonal transitions and the poetry of everyday nature. The print reflects the enduring appeal of Ukiyo-e’s “floating world,” while showing the shin-hanga movement’s subtle naturalism: an art of refined observation rather than grand spectacle.

Color is central to the print’s calm, lyrical mood. A sun-washed palette of yellow, green, and beige is softened by quiet tones of blue and brown. You’ll notice intricate feather patterns set against fluid ripples, and the contrast between precise, naturalistic birds and the more gestural sweep of reeds. Layered pigments and gentle bokashi gradations create depth and atmosphere, making this a contemplative piece that sits beautifully in minimalist, Japandi, and neutral-toned interiors.

Thoughtful and soothing, this print makes a meaningful gift for Christmas, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, a housewarming, or for anyone who loves Japanese art, birdlife, or has recently traveled to 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.