Japanese Screen ()
Birthplace/Origin: N/A
Biography/Statement:
A Japanese two part screen from the Edo Period (1603-1863).
Screens were used as diplomatic gifts. The subject of the screen paintings could often be interpreted as a message to the recipient: 17th-century inventories describe images of Japanese warriors on screens sent to Korea — which is interesting considering Japan invaded its neighbour twice in the 16th century.
Japanese screens also played an important part in the sacred setting of Shinto and Buddhist temples. ‘The concept of shōgon is a décor used in the temple to heighten and intensify the atmosphere for rituals,’ the professor explains. ‘The term encompasses the whole ensemble, from painted images and incredibly intricate silk borders on paintings to beautiful gilded incense burners and the like.’
They were also used at funerals and for the births of very high-ranking members of the aristocracy. Those serving the latter purpose, says McKelway, tend to be ‘completely white or white with images of cranes or egrets painted on them.’
Source: Christies.com