19th century

Front: Chinese Children; back: Thirty-Six Immortal Poets

The subject of this pair of screens is derived from the theme of "one hundred children," which has auspicious meanings such as wishes for many healthy descendants and prosperity. Twenty-four children are shown taking part in activities related to the four seasons. Spring is represented by seven children playing tag near a stalk of bamboo---a symbol of longevity---while summer is suggested by two boys catching goldfish and two other children performing a mock sencha tea ceremony. Representing autumn are two children romping with puppies, three others playing go, and a boy on a hobbyhorse following two others with a flag and a small rod. Winter is indicated by four children making a small snowman and snow rabbits.