A most elegant antique Japanese six panel byobu painted with a composition of five standing cranes among scattered young pine. These elements are classic in their auspicious intent, as the sacred crane symbolizes wisdom and longevity and the pine is a symbol of strength and endurance. The asymmetrical composition is beautifully executed on a buff parchment ground with an overall applied mist of gold leaf flecks, a traditional aesthetic technique known as Sunago. This technique is not only beautiful but created a soft reflective surface that was most engaging as light shifted throughout the course of the day and candles flickered in the course of the evening. Ink, gouache and gold leaf on parchment of handmade washi with silk brocade and lacquer wood frame. Meiji Period 1868-1912 Height 67.62 in. (171.76 cm.), Total Width: 147.25 in. (374.01 cm.), Outer Panels 25.125 in. (63.81 cm.), Inner Panels 24.25 in. (61.59 cm.)