Four-Panel Screen (paravent)

In the 1700s folding screens of this size, known as paravents, were used mainly in salons or dining rooms to protect the occupants from drafts. This screen has four panels made after two repeating designs. Two panels depict brown-and-cream rabbits in front of a trellis of peach trees, with monkeys and birds on top. The other two panels contain three waterfowl at the base; above, a blue and yellow macaw clings to a trellis of roses and squawks at an African crowned crane. The borders of these scenes imitate the shape of gilt wood boiseries (wood paneling) that would have covered the walls of rooms where they were used.

The wool panels were knotted like a carpet and attached to a wood frame with rows of brass tacks.