Byôbu屏風（折疊屏風） - 漆木、絲綢、紙、金箔 - 日本 - 18世紀（江戶時代）

An extraordinary, early 18th century tall six-panel byôbu 屏風 (folding screen) featuring a refined painting depicting scenes from The Tale of Genji 源氏物語 (Genji Monogatari).

The artwork presents a scene from Chapter 17, “A Contest of Illustrations” 絵合 (E-awase). As the tale narrates: "About March 10, when the wintry cold was easing, the lady's maids under Kokiden and Saigū held a picture competition in the presence of the Emperor, with Fujitsubo acting as judge. The competition ended undecided. Twenty days later, the contest resumed, this time judged by Prince Sochi, the son of the former Emperor Kiritsubo and brother to the current Emperor. The contest lingered undecided until Saigū's maids produced an illustrated diary written by Prince Genji during his exile at Suma, winning them the competition. The judge remarked, ‘Without concentration no great talent can achieve much...’" (Source: Genji gojūshijō 源氏五十四帖, Shin Kōbe Shinbunsha, 1974).

The painting vividly portrays the lively inner court as ladies engage in various artistic endeavors, drawing, transporting artworks in luxurious lacquer boxes, and studying pieces. In the upper section, the Emperor is partially concealed behind a sudare, with Prince Sochi and the Emperor's brother judging the artworks. On the left side, women stand on a veranda while a man peeks at them through a gate—an example of the “stolen glimpses” 垣間見る (kaimami) trope, where male characters secretly observe women, a recurring motif in The Tale of Genji.
The scenes are enveloped by glossy gold leaf clouds,

The multi-coloured painting is set on a paper background with gold leaf accents, framed by two silk borders—one thin ecru-gold, and a broader brown one. The screen is further enclosed by a black lacquered wooden frame, with partially gilt metal protective hardware.

Period: Japan – early 18th century (Edo period), maybe even 17th century.

Dimensions:
Total width: 380 cm (2 x 64.4 cm, 4 x 62.8 cm); Height: 170 cm.

Considering its age, the screen is in good condition, with several restorations, traces of wear conform age, and fabric losses along the edges, as well as some tiny, inconspicuous holes. For a clear condition reference, please refer to the photos.

The folding screen is ideal for mounting flat on a wall and presenting as a single work of art.

When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity.