Byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) with Chinese scholar scene - Paper

A striking tall six-panel folding screen 屏風 (byôbu), depicting Chinese scholars engaged in literary and artistic pursuits within an extensive garden landscape. At the left, a group of scholars has gathered around a long table, where one of them is painting on a handscroll while his companions observe his work. Nearby, two further scholars discuss a written work spread across a low table, accompanied by books, while a young attendant practises calligraphy at a separate desk. The scene shows the cultured world of the Chinese literati and, in particular, the traditional Four Arts of the Chinese Scholar 琴棋書畫 (qín qí shū huà), the accomplishments associated with the cultivated gentleman: playing the qin, the game of qi, calligraphy and painting. Here, particular emphasis is placed on painting and the written arts. The figures are set within an elaborate Chinese-style garden overlooking a vast blue lake. A waterfall descends through steep mountains at the far left, while rocky shores, carefully shaped trees and architectural elements carry the composition across the entire width of the screen. At the far right, a bridge and terrace with a small karako 唐子 (Chinese child) extend out over the water. The landscape and figures are surrounded by broad, clouds of silver leaf, now richly oxidized with age. Executed in ink, mineral pigments and colour on paper over silver leaf. The painting is surrounded by two patterned silk brocade borders and mounted in a black lacquered wooden frame. Three red seals are present, two in the lower left corner and one in the upper right. Period: Japan – Second half Edo period (18th century/first half 19th century) Dimensions: Height: 170.6 cm, Total width: 369.2 cm (2 × 62.6 cm and 4 × 61 cm) The screen is in very good and attractive aged condition with oxidation and some wear to the silver leaf, scattered minor losses and restorations. The reverse shows various repapered patches. It retains a strong and appealing aged patina. Please see the photographs for a condition reference. The folding screen is ideal for mounting flat on a wall and presenting as a single work of art, but can of course also be displayed as a standalone piece. When shipped, we will include a certificate of authenticity.

Estimate:$2,696.92

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