Ref. No. 598
Two-Panel Folding Screen with Phoenix
| Origin | Japan |
|---|---|
| Period | Meiji period (1868–1912) |
| Medium | Silk |
| Dimensions |
Height173 cm / 68 7⁄64 in
Width174 cm / 68 1⁄2 in
|
| Condition | Very Good |
| Signature | Keigaku, with seals Minamoto no Mitsumasa and Keigaku |
Provenance
- Private Japanese Collection
Short Description
A phoenix (hoo) sweeps across both panels of this two-panel screen, painted on silk against a gold ground. The bird dives head-first towards the left, with one wing spread in dark green and gold plumage and the other raised in white. Its legs trail behind, and long white plumes stream out to the right, ending in two eye-spots. In the lower half, bands of ink wash and mist suggest ground scattered with tufts of grass, where three leaves with gilt veins lie fallen. The painting is mounted with a gold brocade border inside a red lacquered frame with metal corner fittings.
Condition: The painting surface is in very good condition, with a few small spots and light soiling, mainly to the left panel. The paper backing shows tears, losses and some staining. The frame has minor wear consistent with age.