Two Fold Byobu Screen With Peacock And Flowers By Tokiaki Mineral pigments, ink and gold on silk, mounted in a black lacquered folding wooden frame. The reverse with hand painted repeat pattern of Lion Dogs among flowering vines. Japan, Meiji period, circa 1900. 172cm x 172cm. The magnificent brightly coloured peacock completely dominates this striking, and strikingly modern, painting. The feathers (representing fecundity and wealth) with their eyes rendered in malachite, azurite and gold, fill almost the entire space while intensely pink peonies in the foreground provide a harmonious counter to both the layout and colour composition. The reverse of the screen features an incredible hand painted pattern of Buddhist lion dogs, also on silk. This is the only example of a screen with hand painted backing we have seen. This, together with the quality of the materials used and the exceptional quality of the drawing would suggest this was a very prestigious commission. Inscribed to bottom left: Tokiaki ga (Painted by Tokiaki) See full listing on site for extra images, full condition etc