Japan, Folding screen, Kano School, Edo period, late 17th century.

This 6 folds screen represents an idyllic garden where a couple of pheasants and a couple of ducks rest peacefully at the edge of a small waterfall between the rocks. On the left, a gnarled cypress is covered with snow while camellias bring hints of color, thus referring to winter. The right part of the screen shows blooming peonies referring to spring.

In Japan, the progression of seasonal changes is an important element in the appreciation of art and beauty, as it is closely associated with the awareness of the passage of time and the evanescence of nature.

In China and Japan, the peony, called "the queen of flowers," is the symbol of wealth and high status or social rank.

Mineral pigments, gofun and gold on paper. Black lacquer frame.

Edo period, late 17th century.

172 X 370 cm