Cherry Viewing Party, first half 18th century, Attributed to Miyagawa Chōshun, Japanese, 1682 - 1752, 59 5/8 x 136 in. (151.45 x 345.44 cm) (painting), Ink and color on paper, Japan, Nikuhitsu ukiyo-e, This colorful screen illustrates a favorite Japanese seasonal pastime, the viewing of cherry blossoms. Within a curtained enclosure, sumptuously dressed men and women are shown enjoying a puppet play to the accompaniment of music played on the longnecked shamisen. Some members of the party sit before an elegant painted folding screen, thus demonstrating how these objects were used by the Japanese out-of-doors for privacy and protection against the wind.