Qing dynasty, Kangxi period (1661-1722), a hinged 12-panel screen of black lacquer over wood, polychrome enameled to one face with a classical palace scene depicting dignitaries approaching the interior castle walls while the battle of famous Tang Dynasty General Guo Ziyi (697-781 AD) unfolds outside, flanked by scenes of birds, flowers and mountainous landscapes, the borders depicting bats, dragons and mythical beasts, the verso depicting a seated dignitary within an open-aired structure surrounded by magical spirits, mythical beings and natural forces, flanked by still life scenes within a scrolling border, each panel: 107'' H x 19.375'' W x 0.75'' D, est: $60,000/80,000
Note: A similarly executed Coromandel lacquer screen is currently in the collection of Duke University, Durham, NC. General Guo Ziyi, depicted in battle on the face of the screen, is considered to be one of the greatest generals in Chinese history, and is known in Chinese mythology as the God of Wealth and Happiness. The four-toed dragon and other mythical beasts depicted on the first and last panels denote the high level of importance (and possible nobility) of the screen's original owner. Provenance: the Estate of John Milton Durand (1823-1907), through descent to heirs; Private Collection, Laguna Beach, CA, acquired from the above

Overall good condition commensurate with considerable age, with scattered repairs, restorations and touch-up throughout, including repairs, fill and corresponding overpaint to cracks running nearly the length of some panels. General nicks, scratches, wear, spots of fill, crazing to laquer, minor losses and shrinkage cracks.