17th Century Momoyama period Japanese six panel byobu painted screen of the Tale of Genji. This remarkable screen is in great form painted with rimpa polychrome mineral paint on gold gilt gofun paper amidst swirling clouds. The composition is complex and it allows the viewers to have a bird's eye view of the scene and events. The exaggerated foliages and scale of the courtly figures are dynamically composed with tranquility and balance. Overall the screen reads very well in its story line themes of affections, friendship, filial loyalty and family bonds during the Heina court (11th C). The screens endures a beautiful original patina on its surface. The mineral rimpa has an earthly tone which is commiserate with its age.

Momoyama Period 17th century

Dimensions: 66" H X 148" long