Byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) - Silk

An intriguing tall six-panel folding screen 屏風 (byôbu) depicting various scenes from the celebrated literary classic The Tale of Genji 源氏物語 (Genji monogatari). The richly detailed composition unfolds across a series of open pavilions, gardens and waterways, populated by courtiers dressed in elaborate Heian-period robes. Figures are shown gathered in conversation, seated within elegant interiors, travelling by boat and strolling through the surrounding landscape. Broad gold-leaf clouds drift throughout the composition, separating the individual episodes while unifying them across the six panels. In the lower left, the painting presents a scene associated with Chapter 51, “A Boat Cast Adrift” 浮舟 (Ukifune). Prince Niou 匂宮 (Niou no Miya) takes Ukifune 浮舟 across the Uji River by boat to a secluded dwelling. During the journey, he declares his love to be as steadfast as the evergreens of Tachibana Island, while Ukifune compares herself to a “boat adrift”, unmoored and without a home. Another scene in the upper centre appears to relate to Chapter 12, “Suma” 須磨 (Suma), in which Genji lives in exile by the sea, removed from court life. Here Genji stands on the open veranda longingly looking in the distance. Executed in colour and ink on mulberry paper with extensive gold leaf. The painting is bordered by two patterned silk brocade trims and set within a red lacquered wooden frame fitted with protective metal hardware. Period: Japan – 19th century, (Late Edo–Early Meiji period). Dimensions: Total width 375.6 cm (2 × 63.6 cm, 4 × 62.1 cm); Height 172.5 cm. Considering its age, the screen is in good restored condition with traces of wear consistent with age on both sides, including restorations and areas of repair to the gold leaf, particularly along the hinges. 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.

Estimation:€2,100

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