Splendid Screen from India

This exquisite vintage screen is from India. Intricately carved and hand painted on both sides, this wooden divider features scenes of courtly lovers and elaborately dressed men and women in colorful traditional costumes, bordered by delicate floral designs. The screen, from the trim on the painted clothing to the pierced work on the screen, is lavishly accented with gilt.

 

Although the tradition of miniature painting existed in India perhaps as early as the 7th century CE in illustrations of Buddhist scriptures, the style of painting on this superb screen reflects the influence of the Mughal dynasty. Ruling India from 1526 CE to 1857 CE, the Mughal period was established by Babur, a descendent of Genghis Khan. His son, Humayun, was forced into exile, but returned with the assistance of the Persian Shah. Influenced by his time in Persia, Humayun brought with him Persian miniature artists as part of his court. His son, Akbar, was able to consolidate the empire and established an atelier of over hundred painters. Over time, the Persian tradition melded with Indian influences, moving from chronicling the events of the Mughal courts to illustrating Hindu epics and history as artists migrated to other regions of India, establishing their own schools and styles. This fabulous folding screen is like having your own portable private gallery of traditional Indian art.

All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

14799-60

Fantastic Fenton

This beautiful glass vase in glowing yellow is delicately painted with a chinoiserie landscape bordered by blossoms. It sits on a black glass base molded to look like carved Asian lacquer.  

This set is a scarce work of deco art glass created by the Fenton Art Glass Company in the 1930s. Founded in 1905 by brothers Frank and John Fenton in Martins Ferry, Ohio, the company originally decorated glassware purchased from other manufacturers. In 1907, the brothers opened the Fenton Art Glass factory in Williamstown, West Virginia, producing their own glass and introducing "iridescent ware," now known as "carnival glass." Inspired by the glass artistry of Tiffany and Steuben, Fenton produced a variety of colorful handmade glass objects, many enhanced with hand painting by the company's skilled artists. During the Depression era, Fenton added more practical items to its production, such as mixing bowls. The company ceased glass production in 2011, but its brightly-colored glassware, especially its earlier objects, are very popular with collectors.

The footed base is marked "Pat Pending."

 All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

3-5946