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Japanese Asian Signed Six-Panel Folding Byobu Screen of Playful Court Scene

$3,500
£2,597.14
€3,025.31
CA$4,872.03
A$5,425.44
CHF 2,823.64
MX$66,895.02
NOK 35,961.23
SEK 33,800.07
DKK 22,572.55
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About the Item

A gorgeous, quite fascinating hand-painted six-panel Japanese Byobu folding screen depicting a rather engaging androgynous or erotic court scene (it has been suggested to us that this could be a lesbian party). The central figure and characters on both sides appear to be women dressed masculinely in men's kimonos. One woman on the right has her hand inside her partner's kimono on her chest while the others look on playfully. It was suggested that they could also be Onnagata - effeminate men (or male actors who play female roles in kabuki theatre). A rather risque work. The deep, rich colors, gold leaf, complex design/composition, and beautiful hand-painted detail make this an attractive and special work. Signed in ink and sealed in red by the artist. Original decorative period brass hardware adds another wonderful touch. This gem of a screen is sure to stand out in almost any setting whether used as a room divider or hung on the wall as a work of art. A beautiful and highly unique screen. We have not come across another one quite like it. Likely Showa period but perhaps older. Approximate dimensions when fully extended: 36" high, 106.5" wide, and .6" deep. Approximate folded dimensions: 36" high, 18.25" wide, 4.25" deep.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 36 in (91.44 cm)Width: 106.5 in (270.51 cm)Depth: 0.6 in (1.53 cm)
  • Style:
    Showa (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1960-1980
  • Condition:
    In good vintage condition with no tears or punctures. The screen has slight separation between the two far left panels, tape to backing cloth, and light wear consistent with age and use (please see photos). Beautiful and highly engaging overall.
  • Seller Location:
    Studio City, CA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU2254334271552

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