Large Chinese folding screen, Qing dynasty, Kangxi period (1662-1722)

Large twelve-leaf screen in Coromandel lacquer. China, Qing dynasty, Kangxi period (1662-1722)
Carved and polychrome black lacquer (kuan-cai, known in the West as "Coromandel"), incisions filled with mineral pigments (cinnabar reds, malachite greens, azurite blues, yellows) and gilding on wooden frame. Metal fittings and hinges. Black lacquered back.
The front is decorated with large continuous scene of gardens and palatial architecture, with pavilions, terraces and bridges over watercourses among weeping willows, pine trees and pierced rocks. Numerous characters are engaged in various courtly activities (walks, music, conversation, servants and escorts). In the left sector, a retinue is represented as it prepares to pass through the palace gates.
The framing band presents the motif of chilong dragons (young dragons) and a wide outer border with the repertoire of the "hundred treasures" (baibao): vases with floral arrangements, archaic bronzes, incense burners, tablets, scrolls, ruyi, instruments and auspicious emblems, all delineated and gilded on a black background.
Measurements: 255 × 51 cm (each sheet); 255 × 612 cm (total size).