562:  Ancient Chinese Table Screen

This is indeed a rare treat.  It is an ancient Chinese Table Screen with 4 rows of ceramic panels painted with scenes of royalty framed with wood. The wood frames are all put together without fasteners. They are all jointed in the ancient method of carpentry. The 6 different panels attach to each other with an interesting metal pin and hook system to allow them to zig zag and stand as a table screen. It also allows them to be taken apart.
Front:  The top row has Chinese writing, the second row has various scenes of the royal court.  The third row has scenes of accessories such as tansus, baskets of foods and wines.  The bottom row has scenes of adults talking to children.
Back:  The top row has more chinese writing, and the next three rows has scenery.

It stands 25" tall and 29" wide.
Note: There are two ceramic panels that has an ancient crack through them. Note the yellow arrows showing these old flaws.  They are not that noticeable and add character to the piece. And naturally some of the paint has worn away mostly on the writing,  but the remaining illustrations are vivid and colorful.
Circa probably 1850 or older

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