Original Hand-Made Kumiko Room-Divider With Six Screens, Imported From Japan, C 1970

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Description

This six-panel folding screen is a beautiful example of Japanese kumiko, the traditional technique of fitting small, precisely cut pieces … Read more This six-panel folding screen is a beautiful example of Japanese kumiko, the traditional technique of fitting small, precisely cut pieces of wood into an intricate lattice without nails. Each panel is filled with the asanoha (hemp leaf) pattern and assembled entirely by hand. Light passes through the screen, so the screen divides a space without closing it off.

This screen has regularly been cleaned and lightly oiled with teak oil, but has otherwise not been altered from its original condition. Each piece is made from hand-cut pieces of reddish-brown hardwood that could be cedar (sugi), cypress (hinoki), or spruce. The hardwood has a warm, even tone, and the panels are joined with its original brass hinges so the screen folds and stands freely.

This art form of kumiko that was developed circa 600 AD and has traditionally been used in wall hangings and room dividers. The designs for Kumiko pieces aren’t chosen randomly. In fact, many have been around since the Edo era (1603-1868).

It is hard to find examples this old that are entirely intact and in such fine condition. About the only complaint one can make about this screen is that there is tarnish on the brass hinges.

Provenance: Imported to Sacramento, California around 1970 and then shipped to Florida around 2000, where it was displayed in the home and studio of an art collector to divide up exhibit spaces. Brought to Boston in 2026. See less