How were folding screens used historically?

Folding screens served primarily as room dividers to create private spaces within larger halls or to block drafts. They also functioned as decorative backdrops for furniture and ceremonial seating. In domestic settings, smaller versions sat upon tables or desks, while taller multi-fold panels stood directly on the floor. Their portability allowed occupants to rearrange room layouts easily.

What is a table screen?

A table screen is a small decorative panel mounted on an intricate wooden stand, designed for placement on desks or tables. Scholars and collectors used them as objects of contemplation rather than room dividers. These pieces often feature fine carvings, inlaid stones, or silk panels protected within a wooden frame. They highlight miniature craftsmanship and detailed pictorial subjects.

How do I care for lacquered wood panels?

Lacquered surfaces require stable indoor humidity and protection from direct sunlight to prevent cracking or fading. Dust them gently with a soft, dry cloth without applying modern chemical polishes. Avoiding extreme temperature fluctuations preserves the underlying timber and delicate inlay work. Gentle handling ensures the original finishes remain intact.

How can I tell the difference between periods?

Distinguishing periods involves examining the tooling marks, the composition style, and the ageing of the timber and lacquer. Earlier pieces from the eighteenth century or earlier often display heavier structural framing and deeper patination. Nineteenth and twentieth-century examples frequently incorporate standardised joinery or specific regional motifs associated with the Meiji period or late Qing dynasty. Comparing the complexity of inlay materials also helps narrow down the timeframe.