"Oshidori" Original Mandarin Duck Painting

Size: 9 x 7 inches

Medium:  Aerosol, Acrylic & Oil on Watercolor Paper (unframed)

Artist Signature: On the bottom left

Artist: Hand painted by San Francisco Bay Area artist John Osgood

Year: 2024 as part of the Birduary Series

John's Inspiration

A couple of years ago, I created a painting for a dear friend, teacher, and mentor, Dan Petek. Dan was my Advertising professor at Washington State University back in the late ’90s—GO COUGS! He had commissioned the piece for a family member, and the subject was a Mandarin duck, inspired by a unique sighting they’d experienced on a trip.

Fast forward to this year’s Birduary. As I started brainstorming ideas for new pieces, I revisited past bird paintings for inspiration. The Mandarin duck quickly stood out, almost as if it was calling out, "Pick me!"

In Japanese culture, the Mandarin duck, or Oshidori, is a symbol of eternal love and marital bliss. These ducks are known for forming strong pair bonds and staying together for life—a reflection of lifelong partnership and devotion.