Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A magnificent two-panel folding screen (byobu) depicting the chaotic, epic clash of the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. Rendered in the traditional Rimpa or Tosa school style, it features dense, highly detailed crowds of samurai, cavalry, and standard-bearers amidst stylized gold-leaf clouds.
Story
On October 21, 1600, over 160,000 samurai clashed in the fog of Sekigahara, a conflict that unified Japan under the Tokugawa shogunate for 250 years. This screen captures that pivotal day with astonishing, microscopic intensity.
Maker / Origin
While the specific artist is unidentified, this screen was painted by a highly skilled workshop specializing in historical revival paintings (fukko-ga). These artists meticulously studied 17th-century battle scrolls to recreate the armor, heraldry, and dynamic energy of the Sengoku period for wealthy patrons of the Meiji and Taisho eras.
Condition & Value
The painted surface appears remarkably vibrant with minimal flaking of the mineral pigments. There is minor wear along the panel hinges and outer brocade borders, which is typical for a screen of this age. Excellent overall preservation.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.