Art | Sutter Antiques

Chinese Lacquer Six-Panel Folding Screen

Frank Rosa — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:06:16 +0000

Chinese Lacquer Six-Panel Folding Screen with Classical Poetry

A Scholar’s Retreat in Lacquer

This elegant Chinese six-panel folding screen embodies the refined ideals of the traditional scholar’s studio. The screen features a rich dark lacquer ground decorated with gilt calligraphy, floral arrangements, antiquarian objects, books, censers, and vessels. Together, these motifs celebrate learning, contemplation, and the cultivated life.

The composition draws inspiration from the Chinese literati tradition. Scholars often surrounded themselves with poetry, paintings, rare objects, and symbols of nature. This screen captures that atmosphere with remarkable decorative effect.

Its warm lacquer surface creates depth and contrast. The gold inscriptions and decorative elements stand out beautifully against the dark background.

Classical Poetry and Literary Themes

The screen is distinguished by extensive calligraphic inscriptions derived from classical Chinese poetry. Several passages reference themes associated with the legendary Peach Blossom Spring, one of the most beloved stories in Chinese literature.

First recorded by the fourth-century poet Tao Yuanming, the tale describes a hidden paradise untouched by conflict and worldly concerns. The story became a symbol of harmony, simplicity, and spiritual retreat.

Additional verses appear to draw from the work of celebrated Tang dynasty poet Wang Wei. His poetry often evokes winding mountain paths, clear streams, and quiet landscapes. These themes complement the screen’s imagery of flowers, vessels, and scholar’s objects.

Together, the inscriptions create a visual meditation on nature, learning, and inner peace.

Symbolism and Decorative Motifs

The decorative program reflects the values of the educated scholar-gentleman.

Throughout the panels appear:

Floral arrangements symbolizing beauty and renewal
Bronze vessels associated with antiquity and learning
Books representing scholarship and wisdom
Incense burners linked to contemplation and refinement
Precious objects collected by connoisseurs

These motifs were highly prized within Chinese scholarly culture.

Craftsmanship and Design

The screen displays the influence of the celebrated Coromandel lacquer tradition. Artisans created these screens to serve both decorative and practical purposes. They divided large interiors while providing an impressive visual focal point.

The six-fold format allows flexible placement within a room. The screen works equally well behind a sofa, in an entry hall, or within a library or study.

A Timeless Decorative Statement

Combining classical poetry, traditional symbolism, and sophisticated craftsmanship, this Chinese lacquer screen offers both artistic and cultural significance. Its literary inscriptions reward close study, while its striking appearance enhances any interior.

The screen stands as a compelling example of Chinese decorative arts inspired by the enduring ideals of scholarship, nature, and the search for an idyllic retreat.

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Antique Chinese Red Lacquer Six-Panel Folding Screen

Frank Rosa — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:59:07 +0000

Antique Chinese Red Lacquer Six-Panel Folding Screen

A Dramatic Chinese Lacquer Screen with Auspicious Motifs

This striking Chinese six-panel folding screen presents a vibrant red lacquer ground filled with symbolic imagery. Birds, flowering plants, animals, and decorative motifs create a lively composition across the entire surface. The screen offers exceptional visual impact while retaining a refined sense of balance.

The richly colored front contrasts beautifully with the elegant black lacquer reverse. This dual-sided design allows the screen to function in a variety of interiors. It works equally well in traditional rooms and contemporary spaces.

The screen likely dates to the late Qing Dynasty or early Republican period, circa 1890–1920. It reflects the decorative arts traditions that made Chinese export lacquer screens highly sought after throughout Europe and America.

Handcrafted Decorative Detail

The front features an elaborate arrangement of carved and applied relief decoration. Birds soar through flowering branches and gather among blooming plants. A large central tree anchors the composition and creates a sense of movement across the panels.

The lower register includes roosters, hens, and other animals. These motifs often symbolize prosperity, domestic harmony, and good fortune in Chinese decorative arts.

The decorative border surrounding each panel adds further richness. Fine detailing enhances the overall presentation without overwhelming the composition.

Elegant Black Lacquer Reverse

The reverse side features a deep black lacquer ground decorated with delicate gilt motifs. Floral sprays, medallions, and auspicious symbols appear across the surface.

This treatment demonstrates a level of craftsmanship often absent from later decorative reproductions. The reverse was designed to be seen and appreciated.

The result is essentially two screens in one. The dramatic red front creates a bold statement. The black reverse offers a quieter and more sophisticated presence.

Versatile Interior Design Appeal

Chinese lacquer screens remain highly desirable among collectors, designers, and decorators. They introduce color, texture, and architectural interest to a room.

This screen functions beautifully as:

A room divider
A statement wall installation
A backdrop behind a sofa
A decorative accent in a library or study
A focal point in an entry hall

The vibrant lacquer surface and symbolic imagery create instant visual interest.

A Fine Example of Chinese Decorative Art

This antique Chinese lacquer folding screen combines craftsmanship, symbolism, and decorative appeal. Its richly detailed surface rewards close inspection while maintaining impressive presence from across a room.

Collectors appreciate its unusual red lacquer ground, elaborate relief decoration, and fully finished reverse. The screen stands as an excellent example of late nineteenth- to early twentieth-century Chinese decorative arts.

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Frederic Schiller Cozzens Style Yachting Print

Frank Rosa — Sat, 30 May 2026 17:53:40 +0000

Frederic Schiller Cozzens Style Yachting Print

This finely presented yachting print captures the elegance and drama of American maritime sport.

The scene depicts a yacht race off New York Harbor. Several vessels cross choppy waters beneath a soft atmospheric sky.

The central yacht commands the composition. Smaller sailboats and steam craft appear in the surrounding distance.

The image evokes the refined world of late nineteenth-century yacht racing. It also recalls the rise of New York’s great sailing culture.

A Classic American Maritime Subject

The print is titled Yacht Race Off New York. It relates closely to the celebrated marine imagery of Frederic Schiller Cozzens.

Cozzens became known for his spirited depictions of yachts, regattas, and coastal sporting life.

His work captured both technical sailing detail and social atmosphere. This balance made his marine subjects especially desirable.

The composition suggests movement, competition, and coastal grandeur. It remains highly decorative and historically evocative.

Color, Surface, and Presentation

The print appears to be a color lithograph or chromolithograph. Its muted palette gives the work a warm antique character.

Soft blues, grays, and sepia tones create an elegant maritime mood. The sea retains visual energy through rolling waves and white highlights.

The work is presented under matting in a silvered wood frame. A gilt liner adds warmth and definition.

The frame enhances the print’s coastal character. It also gives the piece strong decorative presence.

Interior Appeal

This yachting print would suit a coastal residence, library, study, yacht club, or nautical collection.

It pairs beautifully with painted furniture, brass lighting, campaign pieces, and maritime objects.

The subject has particular appeal for collectors of New York history, sailing imagery, and American sporting prints.

Condition Note

Visible toning and fading may be present. These qualities are consistent with age and display.

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Japanese Tiger Ink Painting on Paper

Frank Rosa — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:26:05 +0000

Japanese Tiger Ink Painting on Paper — Framed Asian Wall Art

This striking Japanese tiger painting captures the spirit of traditional East Asian ink artistry. The composition depicts a powerful tiger emerging through bamboo and rocky terrain. Bold brushwork and expressive line create dramatic movement and intensity. The tiger’s posture suggests energy, vigilance, and authority.

Rendered in monochrome ink on paper, the work reflects classical Japanese painting traditions. Subtle tonal variation adds depth and atmosphere to the scene. The artist skillfully balances empty space with strong visual elements. This creates a sense of motion and natural harmony.

Traditional Japanese Ink Painting Technique

The artwork uses expressive brush techniques common in traditional Japanese ink painting. Artists developed these methods from earlier Chinese painting traditions.

Fluid ink strokes form the tiger’s fur and musculature. Softer washes create bamboo foliage and surrounding landscape. Each brush mark remains visible, emphasizing spontaneity and control.

Calligraphy appears along the side of the composition. A red seal stamp accompanies the inscription. These elements likely represent the artist’s signature and studio seal.

Framed Presentation with Decorative Mount

The painting is presented in a modern black frame. A decorative patterned border surrounds the artwork. The border resembles traditional textile mounting used in hanging scrolls.

Neutral tones allow the tiger to remain the focal point. The frame provides a clean, contemporary gallery presentation. This combination blends traditional art with modern interior display.

Symbolism of the Tiger in Asian Art

The tiger represents strength, courage, and protection in Japanese culture. It often appears in paintings as a guardian figure. Tigers symbolize power over evil spirits and misfortune.

Bamboo appears beside the tiger as a symbol of resilience. Together they express strength balanced with endurance.

Perfect Statement Artwork for Interior Design

This artwork makes a bold focal point for sophisticated interiors. It works beautifully in minimalist, Japandi, or Asian-inspired spaces.

Collectors appreciate tiger paintings for their cultural symbolism and visual energy. The dramatic composition draws attention without overwhelming a room.

This Japanese tiger painting offers timeless character and refined craftsmanship. It combines traditional artistry with elegant presentation for modern interiors.

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Indian Mughal Style Miniature

Frank Rosa — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:14:48 +0000

Indian Mughal Style Miniature Painting of Courtly Conversation

Overview

This hand-painted Indian miniature painting depicts a refined courtly scene within an elegant pavilion setting. The composition reflects traditional Mughal miniature painting traditions. Fine brushwork and vibrant colors highlight the craftsmanship of the piece. The scene features three seated figures engaged in quiet conversation. Architectural framing and decorative textiles enhance the intimate narrative atmosphere.

Miniature paintings like this were prized for their storytelling and intricate detail. Artists used precise techniques passed down through generations of workshop training.

Subject and Imagery

The painting portrays a nobleman, a central blue-skinned figure, and a woman seated inside a pavilion. The figures sit on patterned textiles within a sheltered architectural structure. Their poses suggest conversation or shared leisure in a courtly setting.

The central blue figure may represent Krishna, a beloved figure in Indian art and mythology. Scenes featuring Krishna often emphasize poetic romance and social interaction. The surrounding architecture suggests a palace terrace or garden pavilion.

Style and Artistic Tradition

This Indian miniature painting reflects Mughal and Rajput artistic traditions. These schools flourished between the 16th and 19th centuries across northern India. Later artists continued producing similar works using traditional techniques.

The painting features flat color fields, refined outlines, and stylized landscape elements. Decorative architectural framing creates a balanced and symmetrical composition.

Materials and Technique

Traditional miniature paintings were created with opaque watercolor or gouache on paper. Artists often used natural mineral pigments and delicate handmade brushes.

The detailed brushwork visible in this piece reflects careful studio craftsmanship. Light inscriptions appear above and below the central scene. These captions often describe the subject or identify the illustration.

Display and Condition

The miniature is presented in a gilt frame with a neutral mat. The framing highlights the vibrant colors and intricate details of the artwork.

Very good vintage condition with minor age-related wear to the paper. The pigments remain vivid and well preserved.

This Indian miniature painting offers a beautiful example of classical storytelling through traditional miniature art. It works wonderfully in traditional, global, or curated interior settings.

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Lacquer Panel

Frank Rosa — Sat, 04 Feb 2023 19:03:09 +0000

Lacquer Panel

Lacquer Panel. Japanese lacquer panel on wood. Depicting the seashore with birds. Artist signed. Showa period.

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Mori Sosen Style Monkeys

Frank Rosa — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 21:31:58 +0000

Mori Sosen Style Monkeys

Mori Sosen Style Monkeys. A pair of framed Japanese panels depicting monkeys. Meiji period.

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Japanese Panels

Frank Rosa — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 20:53:47 +0000

Japanese Panels

Japanese panels. A pair of framed Japanese panels. Tiger and dragon painted on original gold paper.

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Robert Jackson Watercolor

Frank Rosa — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 20:14:25 +0000

Robert Jackson Watercolor

Robert Jackson watercolor (1931-2003), watercolor by renowned muralist and tromp l’oeil artist. A gifted and recognized decorative painter, Mr. Jackson’s works can be seen augmenting period rooms of the American Wing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

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Robert Jackson

Frank Rosa — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:58:01 +0000

Robert Jackson

Robert Jackson (1931-2003), renowned muralist and tromp l’oeil artist. A gifted and recognized decorative painter, Mr. Jackson’s works can be seen augmenting period rooms of the American Wing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

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