Folding screen with minogame and sunset - Paper, Lacquered wood, Mulberry paper, Silk - After Imao Keinen 今尾景年 - Japan - Taishô period / early Shôwa period (second quarter 20th century)






Holds a master’s in Japanese art history with over 10 years’ expertise in Asian art.
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Six-panel byōbu folding screen in Taishō/early Shōwa style, attributed to Imao Keinen and signed in an attributive manner, showing two minogame turtles beneath a red sunset, ink and pigments on mulberry paper with silk brocade borders, mounted in a lacquered wood frame; dimensions 376.6 cm wide by 171.5 cm high; in excellent restored condition and includes a certificate of authenticity.
Description from the seller
A serene tall six-panel byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) after Imao Keinen 今尾景年, depicting auspicious minogame 蓑亀 (long-tailed turtles) beneath a glowing sunset sky.
Two minogame are shown resting upon a rocky outcrop emerging from shallow water, surrounded by sparse reeds rendered in delicate ink strokes. Above them hangs a large low red sun, casting a tranquil atmosphere across the composition.
In Japanese symbolism, the minogame, a turtle trailing a cloak-like tail of seaweed, is a powerful emblem of longevity, endurance, and ancient wisdom. Traditionally associated with the saying “turtles live ten thousand years,” it forms one of the most auspicious motifs in Japanese art.
Signed and sealed in the lower left corner: ‘Image by Keinen’ 景年寫. This is an attributive signature paying homage to the celebrated artist Imao Keinen, not an original work by his hand.
Executed in ink and pigments on mulberry paper. The panels are bordered with two silk brocade bands, a narrow inner gold band and a broader green outer band. Mounted within a black lacquered wooden frame fitted with protective metal corner mounts.
Period:
Japan – Taishô period / early Shôwa period (second quarter 20th century)
Dimensions:
Width 376.6 cm (2 × 64.1 cm, 4 × 62.1 cm), Height 171.5 cm
Considering its age, the screen is in very good restored condition, with expected traces of wear including minor paper losses. Please refer to the photographs for a clear condition reference.
The folding screen is well suited for mounting flat on a wall and presenting as a single large work of art, but can also be displayed as a standalone piece.
When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.
Seller's Story
A serene tall six-panel byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) after Imao Keinen 今尾景年, depicting auspicious minogame 蓑亀 (long-tailed turtles) beneath a glowing sunset sky.
Two minogame are shown resting upon a rocky outcrop emerging from shallow water, surrounded by sparse reeds rendered in delicate ink strokes. Above them hangs a large low red sun, casting a tranquil atmosphere across the composition.
In Japanese symbolism, the minogame, a turtle trailing a cloak-like tail of seaweed, is a powerful emblem of longevity, endurance, and ancient wisdom. Traditionally associated with the saying “turtles live ten thousand years,” it forms one of the most auspicious motifs in Japanese art.
Signed and sealed in the lower left corner: ‘Image by Keinen’ 景年寫. This is an attributive signature paying homage to the celebrated artist Imao Keinen, not an original work by his hand.
Executed in ink and pigments on mulberry paper. The panels are bordered with two silk brocade bands, a narrow inner gold band and a broader green outer band. Mounted within a black lacquered wooden frame fitted with protective metal corner mounts.
Period:
Japan – Taishô period / early Shôwa period (second quarter 20th century)
Dimensions:
Width 376.6 cm (2 × 64.1 cm, 4 × 62.1 cm), Height 171.5 cm
Considering its age, the screen is in very good restored condition, with expected traces of wear including minor paper losses. Please refer to the photographs for a clear condition reference.
The folding screen is well suited for mounting flat on a wall and presenting as a single large work of art, but can also be displayed as a standalone piece.
When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.
