Reeds and ducks

Five mallard ducks and drakes gather among reeds along a riverbank. In Japan mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) migrate through Japan as winter begins. The motif of reeds and ducks has a long history in China dating back at least to the tenth century. By the time this painting was created in Japan, the theme had become symbolic of the fall-winter season.

Tani Buncho, a prolific painter active during the Edo period (1615–1868), was known for his eclectic style, which combines the powerful brushstrokes of Chinese painting, the vivid colors of Japanese painting, and elements derived from Western oil paintings and etchings.