Paintings on Folding Screens and Sliding Doors | 16th–19th century
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Birds and Flowers (detail), By Urakami Shunkin, Edo period, 1823
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 7
May 30, 2023 (Tue) - July 17, 2023 (Mon)The paintings here were not just for looking at — they served many other purposes, even that of furniture. Sliding doors divided rooms, while folding screens could be placed anywhere to create private spaces, reduce draftiness, or hide items from view. Sometimes artisans decorated the paintings with gold leaf, which reflected light and helped to brighten dim interiors.
A painting could also change the mood of a room. Ink paintings might create a relaxed or meditative atmosphere. Ones with bright colors and gold leaf might evoke an extravagant feel. The subject matter and style of a painting could also reflect the formality of a room, the current season, and the tastes of the owner. This gallery surrounds visitors with large–scale paintings to show how they create different moods.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Birds and Flowers | By Urakami Shunkin (1779–1864) | Edo period, 1823 | A-11723 |