Rare Hardwood Table Screen with Old Black Lacquer.

This table screen made of excellent dense hardwood looks like but is heavier than Bai-wood, Chinese cypress. It has beautiful delicate grain. The inserted thick old black lacquer might originally has some writing but is all gone.

The screen frame sits on high-footed pedestals with well-carved simple minimized dragon head design on the top of the supporting vertical posts for the actual screen insert, with rounded horizontal supporting wood rod to stop the insert from falling out. The overall simple design of the screen stand/frame is the perfect match to showcase the beautiful wood alone.

Such small screen was often used on a scholar's table to partially shield an area for the desk. One might place scholarly objects in front of the screen on the inside. For a Feng-Shui purpose, such screen might exclude unnecessary destruction and provide a mental tranquil space. From a modern interior decorating point of view, it shields an area and provides an intimate personal space. Partial repair on the frame apron. Refinished in lacquer finish. Possibly from 17-18th century.

Dimensions: 17" L x 9 1/2" W x26 1/2" H

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