Chinese Lacquered Dragon Boat Folding Screen (Byobu/Coromandel style)
Other: Folding Room Divider / Decorative Wall Screen · Chinoiserie / Traditional Asian Decorative Arts (mid-to-late 20th century) · Unidentified; typical of export production from specialized workshops in China, Vietnam, or Hong Kong.
Type
Other: Folding Room Divider / Decorative Wall Screen
Style Period
Chinoiserie / Traditional Asian Decorative Arts (mid-to-late 20th century)
Material
Lacquered wood panels, likely basswood or plywood core, with mother-of-pearl or soapstone inlays and hand-painted pigments.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960–1980 (Vintage Mid-to-Late 20th Century).
Dimensions
Height: 36 inches, Width: 72 inches (extended), Depth: 1 inch (per panel). Standard medium-sized wall or floor accent.
Origin
East Asian origin, likely China or Hong Kong, intended for the Western export market as decorative furniture.
Designer/Maker
Unidentified; typical of export production from specialized workshops in China, Vietnam, or Hong Kong.
Value Estimate
$200 - $600 USD (Market value varies based on size and the authenticity of the inlay materials).
Description
A striking four-panel decorative screen depicting a mythological dragon boat carrying figures across a stylized landscape. The scene is rendered in a high-gloss lacquer with vibrant sunset hues and intricate shell-like inlays that create a 3D relief effect against the landscape backdrop.
Key Features
Depiction of a dragon boat with a pagoda canopy, four-panel folding design, high-gloss lacquer finish, and relief-style decorative inlays.
Color & Finish
High-gloss black or dark lacquer background with vibrant sunset oranges, greens, and reds; featuring shimmering iridescent inlays.
Construction Method
Hand-painted and inlaid four-panel folding construction using metal hinges connecting solid wood frames.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Standard frame-and-panel construction with mitered corners and surface-mounted hinges; mass-produced artisan quality.
Wood Grain & Species
Grain is obscured by thick layers of lacquer; likely used lightweight Asian hardwoods or engineered wood for stability.
Surface Treatment
Multi-layered lacquer finish with raised relief 'Sonmada' or 'Coromandel' style incised techniques and applied decorative inlays.
Upholstery Details
None; hard surface lacquered construction.
Hardware & Fittings
Inconspicuous metal piano hinges or double-action hinges connecting the four panels; typically brass or chromed steel.
Origin & Provenance
East Asian origin, likely China or Hong Kong, intended for the Western export market as decorative furniture.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the surface appears high-gloss and intact, with no visible cracks in the lacquer or missing inlay pieces in the primary view.
Interesting Facts
Dragon boats symbolize power and strength in Chinese culture. These screens became popular in Western 'Chinoiserie' interior design as focal points above sofas or as room dividers.
Cultural Significance
A modern interpretation of ancient Coromandel lacquer techniques dating back to the Ming Dynasty, modified for 20th-century home decor.
Similar Pieces
Japanese Byobu (usually paper/silk), Coromandel screens (typically larger and incised), or Vietnamese cinnabar screens (red-toned).
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a microfiber cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive waxes. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent lacquer cracking and pigment fading.
Value Estimate
$200 - $600 USD (Market value varies based on size and the authenticity of the inlay materials).
Sustainability Notes
As a vintage piece, it promotes circular economy principles. Use of natural tree-sap lacquer and wood is eco-friendly, though manufacturing processes of the era were not certified.