A FINE SIX-PANEL BYOBU SCREEN DEPICTING CRANES AND PINES Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely decorated with ink, watercolors, and gold foil to depict a dense forest of neatly detailed gnarled pine trees divided by a stream in which four red-capped cranes are frolicking, one preening itself, another looking for fish in the water, a third with its head raised toward the sky, all within a silk brocade frame and mounted to a black-lacquered wood screen with gilt metal fittings with incised and ring-punched decorations. Note the fine gold foil technique used to depict both the ground and cloudy sky. SIZE (when opened) 171.8 x 367 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, little soiling, occasional light scratches, and few minuscule losses. Provenance: Dutch collection. The crane is one of the most prominent symbols of longevity and good fortune in Asia. For at least two millennia, the Chinese have viewed them as living to a great age and as being able to navigate between heaven and earth. In turn, these attributes have made them logical companions of sennin, the Taoist Immortals. The red-crowned, or Japanese, crane depicted in this painting is said to live for 1,000 years. Pine is an auspicious symbol in Japan, representing longevity due to its long life, and endurance as it remains green throughout the winter months. The pine trees depicted in this painting introduce a freshness and liveliness which complements the spirited movements of the cranes. Auction comparison: Compare a related six-panel screen with cranes and pine, dated 18th century, 107 x 273 cm, at Christie`s, 28 July 2015, London, lot 1 ( sold for 12,500 GBP ). Compare a related six-panel screen with cranes, dated 18th century, 178.8 x 373 cm, at Christie`s, 8 December 2016, London, lot 111 ( sold for 50,000 GBP ).