Warai Hanen Folding Japanese Screen

Warai Hanen Folding Japanese Screen Authentic Kanazawa-haku Gold
Certainly the most whimsical piece in our byoubu collection, the unusual semicircle Warai Hanen screen brings a fanciful touch to the home. Decorated with painted images of Japanese children enjoying playtime, the innocent joy represented will bring back fond childhood memories. Breathe new life into any room and use this exquisite piece as a backdrop or partition.
The byoubu is a folding screen consisting of multiple, joined panels. According to one Han dynasty record, the byoubu is defined as an object that blocks wind. Not surprising, considering the kanji’s that make up the word are “byou” (object that protects from) and “bu” (wind). By the 8th century, the innovative shift from single to multiple panels was so highly regarded that they immediately became used as furnishings for the imperial courts of Japan, especially for important ceremonies.
During this period, the screens consisted of six silk-covered panels connected by leather or silk cords. Silk brocade frames the painting on each individual screen, which is then bound by a wooden frame. Brought down through the generations, this technique is still used in crafting these artistic panels. The quality of the craftsmanship is further augmented with the use of gold leaf to adorn the paintings.
The exceptional nature of this screen stems from the gold that decorates the painting. Known as Kanazawa-haku, or “gold leaf from Kanazawa”, it is produced through a unique process that beats gold into remarkably thin, paper-like sheets. The splendid outcome sheets are magnificent creations, a mere 1/1000 of a millimeter thick.

Apart from use as a stand-alone folding screen, it may also be hung on the wall. Please e-mail us for more details about custom designing for this option.

Height: 148cm

Width: 148cm (74cm each)

This is a ONE OF A KIND item, and will not be reproduced by the artist. First come, first served.