How do I use a folding screen at home?

A brown folding screen partitions open-plan rooms, conceals storage areas, or acts as a decorative backdrop behind furniture. Smaller versions sit on tables or function as firescreens near hearths. Position the panels at slight angles to ensure the screen stands stable on firm floors. Avoid placing antique leather or paper panels in direct, harsh sunlight to preserve the materials.

What periods do these brown folding screens come from?

The inventory spans the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries, including Victorian, Edwardian, and Regency eras. Styles range from French Rococo Revival and Continental Baroque to Anglo-Indian and Art Nouveau. Construction details, timber choices, and painting techniques help identify the approximate age of each piece. Maker labels or specific regional woodworking styles provide further clues to their origins.

How do I care for painted leather panels?

Dust the surfaces gently with a soft, dry cloth and avoid using liquid cleaners or harsh chemicals on painted or gilt areas. Keep leather and canvas panels away from damp environments and extreme temperature fluctuations. Inspect the hinges periodically to ensure the weight of the panels does not strain the wood. Professional conservators can address any lifting paint or splitting leather.

What is the difference between a room divider and a fire screen?

Room dividers are tall, multi-panel structures designed to partition living spaces or provide privacy. Fire screens are smaller, single-panel pieces placed in front of fireplaces when fires are unlit. Dividers usually feature three to eight folds made of wood, canvas, or leather. Fire screens often stand on small feet or a central pillar, utilising brass, glass, or needlework.