Search Collections

Pair of Japanese Six Panel Screens: On Lake Biwa

A wonderful pair of Edo period (c. 1800) paintings of a scene from the Tale of Genji, sometimes referred to as the world’s first novel. It was written in the 11th century by Murasaki Shikibu, a noblewoman, in a combination of poetry, prose, and journal-like writing. The book is about a fictional Prince of Genji and his seductions and romances as an aristocrat in Heian era (794 – 1185) Japan. The height of Tosa School painting with outstanding execution of heavy gold clouds and heavy gold dust giving the screens a special glow. The first screen depicts a peaceful painting in which Lady Murasaki rides a boat on Lake Biwa. The second screen, a wonderful serene subject in which Lord Genji is deep in reflection. Painted in mineral pigments, gold leaf and gold dust on mulberry paper. Measurements listed are for each screen.