Tsuchiya Rakusan: Wild Waterlilies and Snipe

Tsuchiya Rakusan’s Wild Waterlilies and Snipe from his Flowers and Birds series captures a snipe in mid‑flight above a pond filled with broad green leaves and bright yellow waterlilies, rendered with the crisp detail and natural clarity that define his early Shōwa‑period work. The sweeping wings, layered plumage, and soft water gradients create a sense of motion and calm, while the bold botanical forms anchor the composition with strong seasonal presence. This impression includes gold‑dust detailing, adding a subtle shimmer that enhances the surface of the water and foliage under shifting light. Signed and sealed by the artist, it’s a striking example of Rakusan’s kachō‑ga style and a standout piece for collectors of Japanese woodblock prints.