Japan two panel tea screen “Boating on a placid lake among mountains, plantings, a pavilion and birds” a folding two-panel screen Byōbu, Dating to late Taisho to early Showa period, 1920s-1940s, it is signed “Raikan”.

Dimensions: 56.75 high and 67.5″ wide extended

Painting is skillfully rendered in watercolor and pigment on silk. Black lacquered wood frame. It depicts a scene from theTale of Genji: The Tale of Genji (源氏物語 Genji monogatari?) is a classic work of Japanese literature written by the noblewoman and lady-in-waiting Murasaki Shikibu in the early years of the 11th century, around the peak of the Heian period. It is sometimes called the world’s first modern novel, Notably, the work also illustrates a unique depiction of the lifestyles of high courtiers during the Heian period.[1] While regarded as a masterpiece, its precise classification and influence in both the Western and Eastern canons has been a matter of debate. Thank you to Wikipedia. Young women directed by an older gentleman and a paddler ply the tranquil lake having launched from their dock and vicinity of their summer time pavilion. Beautiful blue and turquoise colors predominate. Figures are finely interpreted and rendered. Pairs of white heron like birds fly overhead indicating fair weather and representing long life, fidelity.

This is a substantial artwork, a beautiful screen in lovely colors, a convenient size, a one-of-a-kind.