Vintage Authentic Korean Chaekgeori Munbangdo Four Panel Scholar Screen

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A four-panel painted folding screen from Korea circa early 20th century. This type of screen is called Chaekgeori (books and … Read more A four-panel painted folding screen from Korea circa early 20th century. This type of screen is called Chaekgeori (books and things) which is quite unique to Korea. It became popular at the end of 18th century favored and encouraged by King Jeongjo (1752-1800) as a political tool to promote social conservatism such as the traditional Confucianism value, especially considered important in a time when waves of new ideology influx came to Korea. Initially commissioned for the royal court, they became increasingly popular with the scholars of noble and affluent households and were used widely in their halls and studies. Early screens were painted with trompe-l'oeil bookcases displaying books and arrays of collectibles. Later, the bookcases were eliminated to focus on the assemblage of neatly stacked books and objects of scholarly pursue. On this screen, the four panels were neatly presented and framed in woven brocade borders. Among the stacked volumes, one can find many fine porcelain vases with flowers, pottec orchids, incense burner, vessels of fruits, exotic plants such as lotus, plumeria and even a pair of glasses. It feels like a pleasant visual measure hunting for the viewers.

The painting was done in a meticulous way with no details overlooked and also with a rather western still-life dimensional perspective. In a rather unusual maximal but also minimalistic way, the screen exudes a historical charm with a folky flair but appears modern at the same time.

These paintings also included many auspicious fruit, animals and non-scholarly objects which had significance in the context of Korean folk beliefs; for example, many-seeded fruits such as melons and pomegranates, representing the wish for many children.

This is a very rare item and similar screens are available at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the British Museum.

Brass hardware on tops of each panel for hanging. Ready to hang on your wall! ‘Made in Korea’ sticker on back. See less