FINE! Japanese antique furniture 1700s EDO Byobu wind screen hand painting, Real Gold background with bamboo with sign W55.1in/H140cm

This folding screen painting is lavishly covered in gold leaf across its entire background. Depicted upon it with delicate restraint are bamboo leaves and folding screens. During the Heian period of aristocracy, such partitions were erected outdoors for princesses to play or enjoy tea ceremonies. Even from a distance, the beauty achieved through the generous use of genuine gold leaf stands out.
By deliberately omitting figures, this work stimulates the viewer's imagination.
The absence of visible figures creates an atmosphere of longing or affection for an unseen presence, adding a layer of meaning that enhances its beauty.
While it bears an inscription, the artist's details remain unknown. The characters “Hōgan” (法眼) indicate it is an Edo period work. This term refers to one of the Five Eyes in Buddhism, meaning “the wisdom eye that sees all phenomena,” and also denotes a monastic rank.
The metal fittings used on the wooden frame are also splendid. They are intricately carved with arabesque patterns, and the fittings alone are valuable. Furthermore, the surrounding fabric differs from new pieces, possessing a deep color that enhances its beauty.
There is some peeling of the paper, holes, and slight lifting of the gold leaf, but overall, there is no major damage, and it is usable.
Its size makes it easy to display on walls.

In Japan, this furniture is called a “byōbu” (folding screen). It is a type of furniture used for room dividers and decoration. It consists of a wooden frame with several sheets of paper or other materials attached, designed to fold.
The history of folding screens, said to have originated in China, is long. They were already used as windbreaks during the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). In Japan, during the Muromachi period (1336–1573), many ink wash paintings and highly colorful folding screens were produced.

Folding screens are convenient because they instantly transform a space's atmosphere simply by being placed, and they can be folded for storage.

□ Size:  H 21.7in × W 55.1in × D 0.6in （about H55cm×W140cm×D1.5cm  ）
□ Weight :63.4oz (1.8kg)
□ Material : wood, paper, Gold leaf, silk, metal, lacquer

condition...
In very good condition, but has small holes in fabric and paper, peeling, holes on back, and age stains. As shown in the photo, metal fittings have been used to repair part of the back. Additionally, the folding side section has been partially repaired with new gold-colored paper.
Ready for immediate use.