What is a pole screen used for?

A pole screen stood near an open fireplace to protect a gentlewoman's face from the intense radiant heat, which could melt heavy cosmetic wax. The adjustable panel allowed the user to direct the shade precisely where needed while seated in the room.

How do I date a mahogany screen?

Dating relies on observing the cabinetmaking style, such as Chippendale fretwork, Regency pedestals, or Victorian bobbin turning. The materials used in the panels, from Georgian needlepoint to late Victorian scrap work, also offer clues to the period.

Where should I place a room divider?

Multi-fold room dividers work effectively in large living spaces to create intimate corners or to screen off functional areas. They also serve as decorative backdrops against plain walls, showcasing the rich grain of the mahogany and the inserted panels.

Are pole screens easy to adjust?

Most pole screens feature a small brass thumb screw or internal clutch mechanism that allows the panel to slide along the wooden shaft. Care should be taken when adjusting older pieces to avoid stressing the original brass fittings and the wooden channel.