Vintage from the Mid-20th Century – Hand-Painted Chinese Lacquer Screen

6-Panel Decorative Room Divider – Palace Garden Scene

Origin:

A beautifully preserved mid-20th-century Chinese hand-painted lacquer screen, composed of six folding panels richly illustrated with palace garden scenes, courtly figures, cranes, mountains, lotus florals, and traditional gold calligraphy. This type of screen—often inspired by Coromandel craftsmanship and classical story-panel traditions—was produced for export homes and luxury interiors throughout the 1950s–70s.

Each panel showcases layered lacquer, mineral pigments, and metallic leaf backgrounds, creating depth and radiance under light. The narrative artwork, depicting noblewomen, mythological imagery, and serene landscapes, reflects the refined aesthetics of the era. Large-scale screens of this quality rarely survive in such complete and vivid form, making this piece highly collectible and visually impactful.

Condition:

The screen remains in very good vintage condition. The lacquer surface is stable and richly colored, with expected light wear along the edges consistent with age. The artwork retains strong clarity, with no major losses to the painted scenes or gold detailing. Hinges are intact, and the panels stand evenly with smooth folding movement. Overall, the piece presents beautifully and preserves its original decorative integrity.

Size:

• Width (fully extended): 243 cm
  
• Height: 183 cm

Details:

This 6-panel divider combines artistry and craftsmanship: black lacquer framing, gold borders, intricate scroll motifs, and a detailed tableau of women in traditional dress, cranes symbolizing longevity, and stylized landscapes typical of mid-century Chinese decorative arts. The metallic backgrounds illuminate the figures and scenery, giving the piece a luminous, mural-like presence. Whether used as functional décor or displayed as a statement artwork, the screen enhances any space with cultural depth and dramatic visual storytelling.

Perfect for:

• Feature walls or statement corners in homes, hotels, or lounges
• Collectors of Chinese lacquer and mid-century export art
• Interior designers seeking sculptural, narrative décor
• Galleries, studios, and editorial staging
• Anyone looking for a large-scale, museum-style decorative screen