Title: A Set of Eight Folding Fan Paintings, in the Style of Nara Ehon or Yamato-E Painting, Circa 1750-1850. Scenes of a Heian Period Tale, Hand Painted and Bordered with Gold
Condition: Very Good
A Mid to Late Edo Period, beautifully hand painted 18th century set of eight folding fan paintings, in the style of a Nara Ehon or Yamoto-E painting, by an unknown artist.
The paintings feature scenes from a Heian Period tale and seem to focus on a romantic story between two nobles, their robes and kimonos indicating some degree of status, as they reside in courtyards. The scenes change from various location to location, though two appear to be of the same location overseeing the ocean.
The paintings present a variety of hues for the attire, the courtyards and greenery, all being accentuated by gold to the upper and lower borders.
During the Edo Period, and with the prevalence and popularity of Nara Ehon books, many artists would produce fan paintings, often covering Heian Period tales and events, with many being assembled to tell entire stories on folding screens or albums, such as the Heike Monogatari, or Genji Monogatari, and others.
Seven hand painted folding fans on paper, 50 x 19.3 cm
These paintings are in very good shape, with some rubbing and wear to each painting, mostly to each folding point of the paintings, and heavier wear to a few edges. The paintings are curled somewhat.