Two Fold Byobu Screen With Peacock And Flowers By Tokiaki

Mineral pigments, ink and gold on silk, mounted in a black lacquered folding wooden frame. The reverse with hand painted repeat pattern of Lion Dogs among flowering vines. Japan, Meiji period, circa 1900. 172cm x 172cm.

The magnificent brightly coloured peacock completely dominates this striking, and strikingly modern, painting. The feathers (representing fecundity and wealth) with their eyes rendered in malachite, azurite and gold, fill almost the entire space while intensely pink peonies in the foreground provide a harmonious counter to both the layout and colour composition.

The reverse of the screen features an incredible hand painted pattern of Buddhist lion dogs, also on silk. This is the only example of a screen with hand painted backing we have seen. This, together with the quality of the materials used and the exceptional quality of the drawing would suggest this was a very prestigious commission.

Inscribed to bottom left: Tokiaki ga (Painted by Tokiaki) 

Condition: One minor puncture, (now professionally and very discretely repaired) to bottom left panel, below the signature. The reverse silk with rips/tears. The original paper hinging was too damaged to repair and has been replaced with discreet bronze hinges, making the screen particularly suited for wall mounting (wall mounting can produce strain on the original paper hinges, leading to damage). Please see all images and video for condition. Extra images available here Video of the reverse of the screen here ​​ 

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