Maruyama Okyo, a key figure in the Kyoto art world of the 18th century, is known as the founder of the Maruyama-Shijo school, which emphasized the importance of sketching from life. Okyo’s works are recognized for blending traditional Kano school techniques with naturalistic elements, combining both decorative and realistic styles. His innovative approach saw him frequently capturing plants, insects, fish, figures, and objects in his sketches, many of which survive today in sketchbooks and scrolls. This pair of folding screens beautifully showcases Okyo’s ability to balance realism with decorative elegance. Focused on pine trees, the screens evoke a strong sense of seasonal change. The right screen depicts a young pine tree alongside a tortoise, symbolizing summer, while the left screen features snow-covered pines and mandarin ducks, representing winter. The natural elements, combined with the traditional gold-leaf background, highlight Okyo’s talent in bringing together lifelike portrayals of nature with ornamental composition. The inscription by Okyo confirms that the artwork was created during the summer of 1783, when the artist was 51 years old. This adds historical significance to the work and provides a personal glimpse into Okyo’s mature style.