Japanese Wooden Two-Panel Screen with Shishi and Peonies, 1940s

Dimensions: height 98 cm, width 54.5 cm (per panel), depth 2 cm.

This type of decorative folding screen, a ko-byōbu, is a compact room screen that can stand freely in the space.

The two panels are richly decorated on the front with carved wooden motifs in relief. On one side, large peony flowers (botan) are in bloom; on the other side, a lion-dog or shishi leaps between flower stems, followed by a butterfly. The combination of shishi and peony is a classic Japanese motif symbolising protection, strength and good fortune.

At the bottom, the panels are filled with geometric kumiko woodwork: finely hand-cut latticework set behind glass, creating a beautiful play of lines and shadows. The back is covered with decorative light green and white patterned paper, so the screen also looks refined from behind when placed in the room.

The screen is in very good condition. The washi paper shows some foxing and light discolouration due to age, which lends the piece a soft, gently aged character.

As an interior accent this ko-byōbu is highly versatile: use it as a small room divider to define a corner, as a decorative panel behind a vase with branches or ikebana, or as a statement piece in a hallway, bedroom or Japanese-style nook.

An elegant, atmospheric piece that instantly adds Japanese refinement to any space.