Chinese Wood Sign

Four large characters carved into elm, and a frame that could not stop decorating itself.

This sign comes from China, dates to the 19th century and reads Reading Room. It is elm wood. Carved signboards were traditionally hung over the doors of Chinese studies, halls and shops, and their inscriptions often named the room or its purpose. Four bold characters stand out in relief across the planked center, with a small carved seal above. The deep frame is pierced with clouds and scrolling vines around a central motif, with traces of red, green and gilt still in its recesses. It is 79 inches wide and 43 high.

Quiet, please. The sign is doing all the talking.