KOSON -- "Egret on a Snowy Branch" (#13)

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Title "Egret on a Snowy Branch"
(given name)
Date ca1910-23
(Believed pre-Earthquake.)
Provenance Consigned via a discriminating dealer/collector.
Series na
Publisher Watanabe Shozaburo
Seal, Carver/Printer (Publisher's seals never appear on these early "tanzanku" format prints.)
Image Size 6 3/8 x 14 1/4 ("tanzaku")
Original narrow margins--as published.
Impression Very Fine. Superbly executed "bokashi" shading; deep "gauffrage" (embossing) to snow accumulation and feathers; crisp lines; on a striking "jet-black" background.
Condition Nearly Excellent. Strong colors.
(Light toning; few light surface scratches; slight wear.)
Reference/Illus "Crows, Cranes, and Camellias" pl. #156, pg 152, and book's front cover.
Comments Unquestionably Koson's finest "kacho-e" image. Quoting: "Richard Illing describes the print as 'a masterpiece of graphic art'.... one of the most highly valued designs by Koson." Rarely available--our 13th copy in now 13+ years. Pleasingly age-toned.
Item # GG-173 (PA-49)
Price $3400