Folding screen with chrysanthemum garden - Mulberry paper

A beautiful tall six-panel folding screen 屏風 (byôbu) featuring a refined Kanô School 狩野派 (Kanô-ha) style painting of a lush chrysanthemum garden set within an idyllic waterside landscape. On the left, tall stalks of bamboo 竹 (take) rise prominently in the foreground before a series of rustic brushwood fences. Behind them bloom abundant chrysanthemums 菊 (kiku) in white, yellow and deep red. The flowers grow freely over the fencing, while a few small birds perch amongst the dense twigs and foliage. The thick horizontal bamboo rails of the fences are highlighted with oxidised silver leaf, giving them an attractive aged patina. A deep indigo river winds through the composition towards the right, bordered by rocky banks and gently rolling hills. On the opposite bank grows a dense stand of bush clover 萩 (hagi), its arching branches bearing delicate pinkish-red blossoms. Beyond, softly modelled mountain peaks rise against the expansive gold-leaf ground. The chrysanthemum flower heads are finely heightened in low relief with gofun 胡粉 (crushed shell paste), adding subtle texture and dimension. Executed in natural pigments and ink on mulberry paper with gold and silver leaf. The painting is bordered by two patterned silk brocade trims and set within a black lacquered wooden frame fitted with ornate gilt-metal protective mounts. Period: Japan – Early Meiji period (second half 19th century). Dimensions: Total width 374 cm (2 × 64 cm, 4 × 61.5 cm); Height 174.2 cm. Considering its age, the screen is in very good condition with traces of wear consistent with age on both sides. The silver leaf has developed areas of oxidation and verdigris, contributing to its attractive aged patina. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition. The folding screen is well suited for mounting flat on a wall and presenting as a single work of art, but can also be displayed as a standalone piece. When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.

Estimate:$3,371.15

View all items fromCatawikiorAncient Art