Carp or Koi (1926) by Ohara Koson

Carp (Koi) — Ohara Koson shin-hanga (1926)

Silver scales, a single ripple, dusk-blue water. In this 1926 woodblock by Ohara Koson (1877–1945), a powerful carp (koi) glides upward with effortless grace—form pared to essentials, colour graded in quiet bokashi. Strength, serenity, and good fortune in one luminous image.

Why it captivates

• Shin-hanga elegance — traditional ukiyo-e craft refreshed with modern atmosphere.

• Symbolic power — koi as emblems of perseverance, luck, and upward flow.

• Masterful gradation — velvety bokashi creating depth without clutter.

• Graphic purity — a bold silhouette that reads beautifully at scale.

• Calming palette — indigos, greys, and pearl highlights suit contemporary interiors.

• Statement artwork — a serene focal point for living rooms, entries, and studies.

What you’ll see

A single carp angled upward through softly toned water; clean contour along the dorsal fin; delicate scale pattern catching pale light; minimal background that directs all attention to movement and form. Up close: crisp keylines and fine textural detail. From a step back: a poised, meditative composition.

A richer historical frame

Working in the shin-hanga movement, Ohara Koson became renowned for lyrical kachō-ga (birds-and-flowers) and aquatic subjects. Prints from the mid-1920s combine traditional carving and hand printing with subtle Western-inflected shading—images designed for quiet rooms and long looking.

Choose your finish

🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp linework, minimal glare.

💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Sealed in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate, edge-to-edge. Durable, wipe-clean—perfect for busy spaces.

🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Lacquered natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for rich tone and fine detail.

🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

Size (W × H)

575 × 841 mm (approx. 22.64 × 33.11 in)

• Orientation: Portrait

• Aspect ratio: ~0.684 : 1

• Nearest standard frame: A0 portrait (841 × 1189 mm) with a custom mat

• Framing tips:

  • Classic look: cut the mat window to ~571 × 837 mm to overlap edges by 2–3 mm.

  • Contemporary look: float-mount in an A0 frame for a generous gallery reveal.

Custom sizing: Available on request (alternative aspect ratios or added white border).

Specifications

Who it’s for

• Japanese print enthusiasts and lovers of serene design

• Collectors & stylists curating calm, minimalist interiors

• Nature lovers drawn to water, motion, and symbolism

• Gift-givers celebrating new homes, studios, and milestones

Our Commitment

Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then checked and packed by hand so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.

Let quiet strength swim into your space—order your fine-art print of Ohara Koson’s Carp (Koi) today.