Takahashi Bihō (高橋美邦) — Dragonfly & Lotus (c. 1890–1910s)

A lyrical shikishiban nature study: a dragonfly hovers over concentric ripples while white lotus blossoms open among dark pads. The composition relies on clean contour drawing and quiet bokashi shading to evoke evening light on water. Often associated with small-format deluxe issues from the late Meiji to early Taishō period, impressions like this balance clarity and atmosphere with elegant restraint.

Takahashi Bihō was born in 1873; little is recorded about the end of his life and his death date remains unknown. His kachō-ga designs are admired for their poised simplicity and refined color sense.

Details

• Artist: Takahashi Bihō (b. 1873; death date unknown)

• Title/Subject: Dragonfly and Lotus

• Medium: Woodblock print

• Date: c. 1890–1910s

• Format/Size: shikishiban, approx. 9 1/4 × 9 1/2 in. Frame 13.75" x 14.25"

• Publisher: possibly Daikoku-ya

• Signature/Seal: 美邦 with artist’s red seal (at right)

• Condition: Fine impression; excellent color; slight toning; no foxing or tears

LS#034

Item Label

Dragonfly and Lotus
蜻蛉と蓮

Takahashi Bihō (高橋美邦), c. 1890–1910s
Woodblock print, shikishiban
Dimensions: approx. 9 1/4 × 9 1/2 in
Publisher: possibly Daikoku-ya
LS#034

Museum Card

Dragonfly and Lotus
蜻蛉と蓮

Takahashi Bihō (高橋美邦), Japan, c. 1890–1910s
Woodblock print, shikishiban
Dimensions: approx. 9 1/4 × 9 1/2 in

A poised dragonfly skims a ring of ripples as lotus blossoms open among dark pads. Subtle gradations and clean lines shape a tranquil kachō-ga image typical of late Meiji/early Taishō taste. Bihō was born in 1873; the circumstances and date of his death are unknown. Possibly issued by Daikoku-ya.
LS#034