Fan-Shaped Maki-e Lacquer Art Panel | Kakitsubata (Japanese Iris) | Yamada Heiando

Fan-Shaped Maki-e Lacquer Art Panel

by Yamada Heiando

A refined decorative lacquer artwork depicting kakitsubata (Japanese iris) — a flower celebrated in Japanese art and classical literature as a symbol of elegance, seasonal beauty, and poetic refinement.

Crafted in the form of a suehiro (expanding fan), a traditional symbol of expanding fortune and auspicious growth, this piece expresses harmony between nature and refined design.

The composition portrays blooming irises spreading rhythmically across a luminous gold leaf background, creating a striking contrast between vivid blue petals and shimmering gold.

The artwork is created using the traditional maki-e lacquer technique, where fine metallic powders are carefully applied onto layers of lacquer over a gold leaf background. Each motif is meticulously built through repeated layering, polishing, and drying processes.

Due to the complexity of the technique, production requires several months of work by master artisans, resulting in a piece of exceptional brilliance, depth, and craftsmanship.

Produced by Yamada Heiando, a historic lacquerware house established in 1919 and recognized as a supplier to the Imperial Household of Japan.

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Cultural Background

The composition draws inspiration from the aesthetics of the Rinpa school, a celebrated movement in Japanese art originating in the early Edo period.

One of the most famous Rinpa masterpieces is the iris screen painting inspired by The Tales of Ise, a classic work of Japanese literature depicting the refined world of the Heian aristocracy.

Rinpa works are known for bold compositions, gold backgrounds, and stylized depictions of nature. For over four centuries, this artistic tradition has influenced Japanese decorative arts.

The rhythmic arrangement of iris flowers across the golden surface reflects this distinctive Rinpa aesthetic, combining decorative elegance with expressive simplicity.

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Craftsmanship

This artwork is created using traditional maki-e lacquer techniques, one of the most refined decorative methods in Japanese lacquerware.

The process includes:

• Gold leaf base application
• Multiple lacquer layering stages
• Hand-sprinkled metallic powders
• Detailed polishing and finishing

Fine gold powder is delicately scattered across the iris motifs, adding subtle brilliance and depth while enhancing the expressive composition.

Each piece is individually handcrafted, making every work subtly unique.

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Display Options

• Wall-mounted display (hardware included)
• Freestanding display using optional stand

This versatile lacquer artwork can be displayed either as a wall-mounted art piece or as a freestanding decorative object.

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Specifications

Width: 530 mm
Height: 270 mm
Material: Natural lacquer, gold leaf, wooden core
Display: Wall mounting hardware included
Optional accessory: Display stand

Made in Japan

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Ideal For

Luxury residential interiors
Hotel and hospitality spaces
Japanese restaurants and cultural venues
Collectors of Japanese art
Luxury corporate gifts

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Important Notes

Each piece is handcrafted; slight variations may occur.