Gold Rinpa Style Byobu Screen - Ca 1980's

This Japanese four-panel byōbu folding screen, dating to circa 1980, is a striking example of decorative art inspired by the celebrated Rinpa school of Japanese painting. Featuring an elaborate arrangement of seasonal flowers against a luminous gold background, the screen captures the elegance, vibrant colours and refined compositions characteristic of this influential artistic tradition.

The composition centres on a flower cart (hana-guruma), overflowing with an exuberant display of peonies, chrysanthemums, irises and other seasonal blooms. Delicate branches of white blossom extend gracefully across the left-hand panels, while pine branches and autumnal maple leaves introduce contrasting forms and colours. 

One of the most captivating features of the screen is its shimmering gold ground, which reflects light beautifully and gives the painted flowers a remarkable sense of depth. The artwork is surrounded by an intricately patterned floral fabric border in warm golden tones, finished with a narrow black frame. The reverse is covered in a rich, dark blue material.

The Rinpa school, which flourished during Japan's Edo period (1603–1868), is renowned for its highly decorative treatment of natural subjects, particularly flowers, trees and seasonal landscapes. Artists such as Ogata Kōrin (1658–1716) helped establish a distinctive aesthetic characterised by bold compositions, stylised forms and the extensive use of gold. Although this screen is a much later work, it beautifully reflects the enduring appeal of that artistic tradition.

Comprising four hinged panels, the screen can be displayed in a gently folded arrangement as a freestanding decorative feature or extended to its full width of approximately 168 cm. Its relatively compact height also makes it particularly attractive as a decorative panel above a sideboard, console table or bed.

Hangers can be added upon request, allowing the screen to be displayed as a wall-mounted artwork.