26 420 029

Jidai Byobu

Late Edo Period (approx. the 1800s)

Antique Unkin and Sunago Abstract Painting II

Foil, Unkin, and Sunago:
Savoring the layered expressions of brilliance.

This Jidai Byobu showcases the exquisite eye of the antique dealer, who intentionally isolated the decorative background motifs from a late-Edo period painting to serve as the main composition. While appearing at first glance to be a singular tone of gold, three distinct layers interact to generate a profound sense of depth. The lower edge features gold leaf that exudes a serene, quiet beauty; the midground captures the eye with the fluid, sweeping lines of Unkin clouds; and the sky is filled with sunago that dances with vibrant energy. We invite you to fully immerse yourself in this magnificent symphony of brilliance.

*Unkin: A traditional Japanese painterly motif representing stylized clouds depicted from a high, bird's-eye perspective.

*Sunago: A decorative technique using finely crushed and scattered gold or silver leaf.

A chic, contemporary presence
born from the balanced symmetry of a square.

In the soft embrace of daytime natural light, the surface radiates a gentle, airy luminescence, while beneath the upwards glow of evening indirect lighting, it takes on an alluring, sensual sheen—allowing you to savor a phantasmal, ever-shifting play of light. This piece possesses a remarkable versatility, blending with mystical ease into both a modern apartment living room and a traditional, earthen-walled teahouse. The geometric, square composition—which can itself be reimagined as a singular, monumental sheet of gold leaf—strikingly accentuates its sophisticated, contemporary allure.

Jidai Byobu

Antique Unkin and Sunago Abstract Painting II

Antique Unkin and Sunago Abstract Painting II

The artwork will be meticulously wrapped, secured with cushioning materials, and delivered in a protective outer box. A hook is provided on the back for easy wall mounting.

As each piece is a unique historical artifact, availability is limited and may be subject to prior sale. If you have any questions, please refer to our FAQ page or contact us via the CONTACT form.

[Serial No.]
26 420 029
[Estimated Era]
Late Edo Period (approx. the 1800s)
[Size]
W200mm × H200mm × D30mm

The Art of Traditional Mounting

Every "Jidai Byobu" (historical folding screen) we create is meticulously handcrafted using traditional Japanese hyogu mounting techniques.
In our process, we intentionally apply adhesive only to the outer edges of the reverse side. This time-honored method—the same used for the sliding doors (fusuma) of Japanese temples and the original screens of antiquity—is a testament to the wisdom of our ancestors. It preserves the soft, natural texture of the paper while allowing it to "breathe" and shift in response to seasonal changes in humidity, preventing the delicate material from cracking or tearing.
Should you notice subtle tension lines or ripples appearing near the corners due to environmental changes, please be assured that this is a sign of the paper naturally protecting itself. We hope you will embrace these nuances as a unique "scenery" ("keshiki")—a hallmark of an authentic, living piece of art.
One of the remarkable benefits of traditional mounting is that the piece can be restored even after significant changes over the years. Our craftsmen are honored to breathe new life into your screen should it ever require adjustment. In such cases, please contact us via our inquiry form (kindly note that round-trip shipping costs are the responsibility of the owner).
We are dedicated to working alongside you to preserve this "piece of history" for generations to come.

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