Two Egrets in the Reeds by Ohara Koson, 1900

Two Egrets in the Reeds by Ohara Koson introduces a quiet moment of nature distilled into the refined language of Japanese woodblock printing. Created in the early 20th century by a master of kachō-e (bird-and-flower pictures), the scene shows two elegant egrets poised among tall reeds, their luminous plumage set against a softly textured marsh. Koson’s gift was to balance observation with atmosphere: the birds feel alive yet perfectly still, their forms harmonizing with a landscape rendered in warm, earthy tones and gentle gradients.

This fine art print is faithfully reproduced on your choice of acid-free archival paper or artist’s cotton canvas. Offered in a range of sizes, it can be framed to standard dimensions or customized to fit your space. The Unique Maps Co. provides optional professional framing, matting, and personalized touches—such as a title caption or dedication—so your piece arrives ready to display or gift.

Ohara Koson (1877–1945) is celebrated for revitalizing nature subjects within the shin-hanga movement, bridging classical ukiyo-e sensibilities with modern printing craftsmanship. His prints are admired for their subtle drama: he captures fleeting instants—birds resting, reeds swaying, light fading—so that the simplest subjects acquire a hushed, poetic intensity. Collectors and designers prize his work for its serenity and for the way it brings both tradition and freshness to interiors.

Two Egrets in the Reeds is a superb example of Koson’s command of composition and mood. Here, the curving lines of the birds’ necks and backs are counterpoised by the vertical rhythm of the rushes, a dialogue of arcs and angles that creates movement without disturbing the calm. The print epitomizes the contemplative spirit of ukiyo-e: a reverence for nature’s transient beauty and a distilled sense of place and season.

The color harmony is particularly compelling. Soft whites and quiet grays in the egrets’ plumage glow against a field of warm yellow-ochre, olive green, and muted brown. Delicate, precise strokes articulate feathers and reed tips, while subtle gradations guide the eye from foreground to distance. The effect is both intimate and expansive—a tranquil study in light, line, and texture that enhances minimalist, Japandi, and nature-inspired interiors alike.

A refined and timeless choice, this print makes a thoughtful gift for bird lovers, admirers of Japanese art, and anyone who values calm, contemplative spaces. Ideal for birthdays, housewarmings, Mother’s or Father’s Day, Christmas, or as a meaningful present for someone returning from travels in Japan, it brings a quiet elegance that never goes out of season.

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.