Byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) - Gold leaf, Lacquered wood, Silk - Japan - Late Edo period (First half 19th century)

An attractive, tall six-panel byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) showcases a rich Tosa School 土佐派 genre painting on gold leaf, capturing the vibrant and festive life of both commoners and aristocrats during the Edo period.

The artwork vividly portrays a variety of festive scenes, including a lively street festival where people dance in a circle around a central platform. Individuals from various social strata are illustrated engaging in leisure activities, enjoying delicious food, tea, and music. The painting also depicts moments of tranquillity and daily routines, such as people relaxing by a waterfront, on a boat, illuminated by the moon. Or viewing autumnal scenes from a cliff. Additional scenes show the maintenance of a traditional estate, with figures matting tatami and cleaning roofs. But also in a large contrast to this, it shows a gathering of noblemen clad in luxurious kimonos within a grand estate's confines.
Please have a close look at the photos yourself to discover all the ongoing cheerful activities and refined details.

All these diverse scenes are encased within rich gold leaf clouds. Framing the panels are two elegant brocade silk borders - a slender white one and a wider dark one adorned with a floral pattern, all set within a red lacquer wooden frame with its rich original protective hardware with a reticulated scrolling foliage design.

Period: Japan – Late Edo period (First half 19th century).

Dimensions:
Total width: 367.4 cm (2 x 62.7 cm, 4 x 60.5 cm); Height: 170.6 cm.

Considering its age, it is in a very good condition with some traces of wear conform age and old restorations. Repapering and upholstering of the hinges at the backside. For a condition reference, please have a look at the photos.

When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity.

Please note: Due to the holidays, shipping and handling times may be longer. Thank you for your understanding.