Late 19th C Japanese 6 Panel Screen Silver Flowers Seasons Folding Byobu

Description

Antique Japanese hand painted on paper “Flowers of the Seasons” Meiji era
Screen Byobu features six gouache paintings of flowers … more Antique Japanese hand painted on paper “Flowers of the Seasons” Meiji era
Screen Byobu features six gouache paintings of flowers representing various seasons including wisteria, iris, and peonies
with scratches, nicks, and abrasion consistent with age and use; toning, tears, and discoloration to paper
Dimensions: 23.0" W x 68.25" H x 4.25" D
- measures folded screen; measures approximately 138.0" wide when extended.
This composition of flowers represents a seasonal progression from spring to summer. Beautifully realized in the rich colors and tarashikomi technique typical of the decorative Rinpa style, the composition is read from right to left.
The scene follows a loose progression from early spring with flowering cherry blossom (Sakura), quince, camellia to summer with peony, iris and wisteria.
Nature in all its seasonal variations has long been an integral part of Japanese culture. Flowers, each blooming in its season, are especially loved, both for their beauty and as motifs symbolizing the seasons in art and poetry. The Japanese Rinpa school of art represents the fullest expression of nature painting in Japan. During the Edo period, Rinpa school artists made the flowering plants and trees of the seasons their signature subject. less