Ike no Ahiru 池のあひる（いけのあひる）｜Ay-O 靉嘔（あいおう） This silkscreen print titled “Ike no Ahiru (Ducks in a Pond)” is a vivid example of Ay-O’s signature rainbow spectrum expression, a visual language that has brought him international recognition in postwar and contemporary art. Ay-O is best known for his dynamic use of rainbow gradations, enveloping a wide range of motifs—nature, living beings, and cultural imagery—in radiant layers of color. Through this approach, he creates works that speak directly to the viewer’s senses, conveying joy, vitality, and a tactile sense of energy through color alone. In this work, ducks floating peacefully on water are rendered in rhythmic bands of luminous color. The familiar and gentle motif of ducks in a pond is transformed into a celebratory scene, where movement, light, and harmony are expressed through Ay-O’s distinctive palette. The image balances playfulness with calm, offering a quietly uplifting presence that is both approachable and sophisticated. Created using the silkscreen technique in close collaboration with highly skilled master printers, this print achieves exceptional transparency, saturation, and clarity. The carefully layered colors demonstrate Ay-O’s continuous pursuit of technical excellence and expressive intensity. This work is pencil-signed by the artist and numbered 114/200. It represents a strong example from Ay-O’s mature period, when his rainbow philosophy and silkscreen techniques were fully established. A charming yet conceptually refined work, “Ike no Ahiru” is an appealing acquisition for collectors of Japanese contemporary art, as well as for those seeking a bright and positive statement piece. --- Artist Profile 1931 Born in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan 1954 Graduated from Tokyo University of Education, Faculty of Art 1958 Moved to New York 1963 Exhibited at Gordons Fifth Avenue Gallery, New York 1964 First “Rainbow Happening” at Carnegie Recital Hall, New York 1966 Exhibition at Zwirner Gallery, Cologne 1977 “Rainbow Laundry” event at the World Trade Center, New York 1987 300-meter “Rainbow Eiffel Tower” event, Paris 1991 Exhibition at Emily Harvey Gallery, New York (also in 1993 and 1996) 1992 “Rainbow Happening Series” at the New Museum, New York 1994 Solo exhibition “Some Hanging Pieces No.10” at Fridericianum Museum, Germany --- Accessories None --- Dimensions & Weight Image size 28.5 × 37.8 cm Total size including accessories 28.5 × 37.8 × 0.1 cm Weight 26.5 g --- Technique & Condition Silkscreen print on paper Pencil signed Edition 114/200 Dated 1991 Condition excellent --- Shipping Shipping via Japan Post EMS from Japan. Items are securely packed to ensure safe international delivery. Please note that I can ship only to countries where EMS delivery from Japan is available. For bidders in the United States: Please be aware that additional import duties or tariffs may be applied by U.S. Customs, and the amounts can be significantly high depending on the item and the current regulations. If you choose to place a bid, please do so with full understanding of the possible customs charges. Import duties, VAT, and customs handling fees are the sole responsibility of the buyer.