Meiji Period Screen Appraisal

Japanese Meiji Period Shibayama Style Lacquer Screen Panel

This is a large, vertical decorative panel, likely once part of a multi-fold floor screen or a standalone framed wall hanging. The central focus is a black lacquer panel featuring high-relief 'Shibayama' style inlays, likely composed of carved bone, ivory, or mother-of-pearl, depicting a large hawk perched on a gnarled flowering branch with smaller birds in flight. The central black panel is surrounded by a secondary frame of reddish-brown lacquer decorated with delicate overglaze gold maki-e floral patterns. The outer framework consists of dark, heavy wood, possibly rosewood or zitan, showcasing intricate openwork scrolling carvings on the stiles and rails. The craftsmanship indicates late 19th-century Japanese Meiji period production (1868-1912), specifically designed for the export market. Regarding condition, there is visible cracking to the black lacquer ground consistent with age and environmental fluctuation. Several small inlay pieces for the leaves appear to be missing or loose. There is significant dust accumulation and some scuffing on the bottom rail. The high quality of the carving on the hawk's feathers and the branch demonstrates a high level of artisanal skill, though the lack of a visible signature suggests it came from a known commercial workshop of the era rather than a single master artist.