Japanese Screens

Japanese Screens Biography.

   Like many Japanese arts and crafts, folding screens originated in China; prototypes dating back to the Han dynasty have been found. The term "byōbu" figuratively means "protection from wind", which suggests that the original purpose of byōbu was blocking drafts. Byōbu were introduced in Japan in the eighth century, when Japanese craftsmen started making their own byōbu, highly influenced by Chinese patterns. Through different Japanese eras, byōbu evolved in structure and design, along with the techniques and materials used:

   Nara Period (646-794): The original form of byōbu was a single standing, legged panel. In the 8th century, multi-paneled byōbu made their appearance, and were used as furnishings in the imperial court, mainly in important ceremonies. The six-paneled byōbu were the most common in the Nara period, and were covered in silk and connected with leather or silk cords. The painting on each panel was framed by a silk brocade, and the panel was bound with a wood frame.

Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 Japanese Screens

 

Japanese Screens

How To Make a Japanese Screen

Japanese Screens

Japanese Screens (Ancient Art Podcast 24)