A four-panel Japanese byōbu printed on paper depicting blossoming plum (梅, ume). The composition is dominated by the large twisted trunk of the tree extending horizontally across the panels, with sinuous branches laden with white and red blossoms spreading across the entire surface. Wooden lacquered frame. Signed Itô Kakô. The subject of ume is one of the most appreciated themes in Japanese painting: the flowering of the plum tree at the end of winter symbolizes rebirth, perseverance, and the arrival of spring. Byōbu (屏風), literally “wind protection screens,” are traditional Japanese folding screens originally created to divide spaces and today appreciated above all as striking wall-mounted paintings. ---The byobu is in good condition. There are some signs of wear and oxidation to the metal fittings. Please refer to the pictures for further details. The item will be carefully packed and shipped accompanied by the original certificate of authenticity issued by Mastromauro Japanese art gallery based in Milan, Italy. 815