Vintage Japanese Shoji Sliding Panels with Ranma Transom, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0510

Vintage Japanese Shoji Sliding Panels with Ranma Transom, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0510

A complete vintage Japanese shoji panel set featuring hand-cut kumiko lattice and a striking asanoha carved lower section -- an architectural treasure from the Late Showa era.

A shoji is a traditional Japanese sliding door or screen consisting of a wooden lattice frame -- known as kumiko -- backed by translucent washi paper that filters light softly into a room. This set comprises multiple tall sliding panels paired with a wide horizontal ranma transom panel designed to sit above the main doors, a classic configuration used in Japanese homes and inn-style architecture to allow light and air to pass between rooms while maintaining visual separation. Each panel features a warm natural wood inner kumiko framework set within a deep dark-lacquered outer frame, a refined contrast that was popular in mid-to-late Showa residential construction. The lower portion of each sliding panel is filled with a dense, hand-cut asanoha (hemp leaf) geometric lattice -- one of Japan's most auspicious traditional patterns, symbolizing growth and resilience -- elevating these doors from functional architecture to handcrafted Japanese decorative art. The ranma transom displays an exceptionally fine close-set grid kumiko, adding an additional layer of visual texture to the ensemble. The washi paper backing shows age-appropriate toning, lending the set an authentic wabi-sabi aesthetic.

Today, this vintage Japanese shoji set offers remarkable versatility for the modern home. Mounted as a living room accent or used as a freestanding room divider, the panels bring instant Japandi style to any interior -- their warm wood tones and geometric lattice work pairing beautifully with minimalist decor and mid-century modern furnishings. Displayed horizontally, the ranma panel makes a dramatic piece of wall art above a console, bed headboard, or entryway furniture. Individual panels can be repurposed as decorative window screens that filter natural light in a bedroom or home office, recreating the soft, diffused glow of a traditional Japanese interior. This set would make a truly unique housewarming gift or a standout acquisition for collectors of Japanese vintage architectural elements.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood frame with dark lacquered outer rails and natural wood kumiko lattice; washi paper backing; exact wood species not confirmed
• Use: Sliding interior door panels with ranma transom for traditional Japanese room division and light filtration
• Modern Use: Freestanding room divider or living room accent; decorative wall art panel display; bedroom or home office window screen for diffused natural light
• Features: Multiple tall sliding panels with vertical kumiko lattice; lower section of each panel filled with hand-cut asanoha (hemp leaf) geometric pattern; separate wide horizontal ranma transom with dense fine-grid kumiko; contrasting dark lacquered outer frame and warm natural wood inner lattice; washi paper backing with age-appropriate patina
• Dimensions: 67"W x 1"D x 14"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with age; washi paper shows natural toning and age staining; wood and lacquer frames intact

A rare and complete set of vintage Japanese architectural elements -- handcrafted shoji panels and ranma transom that bring the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese interior design into any modern space.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.