An assortment of Japanese screen waves is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct Japanese screen waves — often made from
paper,
fabric and
silk — can elevate any home. Find 26 antique and vintage Japanese screen waves at 1stDibs now, or shop our selection of 2 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished furniture. There are all kinds of Japanese screen waves available, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. Japanese screen waves are generally popular furniture pieces, but
mid-century modern and
modern styles are often sought at 1stDibs. Japanese screen waves have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by
Cassina and
Charlotte Perriand are consistently popular.
Japanese screen waves can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $17,312, while the lowest priced sells for $900 and the highest can go for as much as $92,287.
Traditional Asian paintings were often created on scrolls and folding screens. Artisans made screens that could be folded up or spread out by connecting several panels using hinges. Today, antique Asian folding screens and paintings are sophisticated decorative accents that can serve as makeshift partitions to ensure privacy.
The original folding screens were created by Chinese artists. The earliest record of screens comes from the 2nd century B.C., and surviving examples date back to the Ming dynasty. Chinese painting utilizes many of the same tools as calligraphy — these screens were crafted from wood with painted panels featuring striking art or calligraphy that told cultural stories or represented nature and life in the area.
The practice was introduced to Japan, where paintings for screens were made on paper and silk, in the 8th century. These paintings frequently feature subjects such as landscapes, animals, flowers and Buddhist religious themes. Along with screens for tea ceremonies and dance backgrounds, there were screens for use in Shinto and Buddhist temples.
In the 17th century, screens began to be imported to Europe where their popularity grew. Coco Chanel famously collected Coromandel folding screens.
Traditional Asian paintings can make a tasteful addition to any wall, and screens can be used as decoration or, in the case of larger iterations, as an aesthetic way to divide a large room. Browse the selection of antique Asian paintings and screens from a variety of styles and eras on 1stDibs.