Chinese Screen Panel with Open Lattice

A lattice up top, a paneled door below, and a good deal of light.

Chinese woodworkers made this screen panel in elm wood in the 20th century. Panels like this were commonly used as doors, partitions and room dividers in traditional houses, with the open lattice letting light and air through. The upper section is a fretwork of interlocking right angles. Below, a plain, recessed paneled section is bordered by plain horizontal rails. The elm has a warm honey-brown color and a smooth, softly waxed finish.

About 95 inches tall and 26 wide. Tall, narrow and handsome, it makes a doorway out of a wall.