Tea-ceremony folding screen with palms & tatched fence - Lacquered wood, Mulberry paper, Silk, Gofun, Gold leaf - Japan - Edo period (17th–18th century)

This folding screen is a remarkable example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship from the Edo period, spanning the 17th to 18th centuries. Such screens, known as byōbu, were multifunctional, serving as room dividers and artistic focal points in tea ceremonies. Crafted with lacquered wood, mulberry paper, and silk, this screen incorporates gofun—a white pigment made from powdered oyster shells—and gold leaf, which illuminates the delicate depiction of palms and a thatched fence. The imagery reflects the Japanese appreciation of nature and seasonal motifs, common in Edo period art. These screens were integral to tea ceremonies, creating an ambiance of tranquility and refined aesthetics. The use of luxurious materials and sophisticated techniques highlights the cultural importance of the tea ceremony and the artistry invested in its surrounding objects during Japan's peaceful Edo era.