Symbol of Longevity: The Majestic Crane in the Art of Kōno Bairei

Ready-to-hang: Includes hanging kit, ready to hang directly on the wall.
Frame Material: Durable pine wood.
Frame Measurements: 20-25mm (0.79"-0.98") thick, 10-14mm (0.4"-0.6") wide.
Paper Weight: 200 gsm (80 lb), thickness: 0.22 mm (8.7 mils).
Paper Finishing: Matte, smooth, non-reflective surface.
Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass protects the poster.
Sustainable Paper: FSC-certified materials or equivalent.

This is a classic Japanese woodblock print by the esteemed 19th-century artist Kōno Bairei. The artwork embodies the minimalist elegance of Japanese aesthetics, featuring a single red-crowned crane in flight against a large, setting or rising sun. The composition is beautifully balanced, using a vast expanse of negative space to draw the viewer's eye to the delicate and precise brushwork that captures the crane's form and the subtle texture of its feathers. The soft, warm gradient of the sun provides a striking yet harmonious contrast to the bird's monochrome plumage.

Historical Tidbit

In Japanese culture, the red-crowned crane, or tanchōzuru, is a deeply significant and auspicious symbol. It is revered as a mystical creature believed to live for a thousand years, representing longevity, good fortune, and peace. When paired with the rising sun, as seen in this print, the symbolism becomes even more potent, representing new beginnings and hope for the future. The artist, Kōno Bairei, was a master of this genre and a dedicated teacher in Kyoto. In an era when Japan was rapidly modernizing, he worked to preserve and pass down traditional painting techniques, and his works often served as models for his students.

Our sturdy wooden framed posters come ready to hang and are printed on heavyweight white matte paper with a smooth, luxurious finish—designed to stand the test of time: