Byōbu folding screen - Autumn Flowers and Birds on Gold Leaf – With Sotheby’s Stickers - Japan (No reserve price)

【Important notes】

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【Product details】

A beautifully painted six-panel byobu folding screen from the Meiji period or later, depicting an elegant composition of autumn flowers and birds over a shimmering gold-leaf ground. The work shows refined brush technique influenced by the decorative Rinpa tradition as well as the naturalistic approach of the Maruyama–Shijō school, balancing rich ornamentation with gentle realism.

The painting features a harmonious arrangement of well-known autumn motifs. Large pink and soft orange blossoms of the confederate rose form the central focal point, surrounded by sprays of yellow valerian, blue and white bellflowers, and delicate clusters of bush clover. Two wagtails rest near the base of the foliage, a traditional symbol of harmony and marital happiness.

A pair of Sotheby’s inspection stickers remain on the reverse. During the Meiji era, many such luxurious gold-ground screens were exported to Western markets, representing the height of Japanese decorative arts of the time.

The surface shows wear consistent with age, including abrasions, areas of paint deterioration, slight flaking of gold leaf, minor tears along the folding lines, and some creasing. The reverse has small tears, and the wooden frame has a few small chips to the lacquer, with some tarnish to the metal fittings. Remains in good antique condition. Please refer to the photos for details.

Dimensions when opened: approx. H 48 cm W 123 cm D 1 cm

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・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance.

Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!