Table screen and stand

This triptych screen is carved skillfully with multiple lacquer layers. The decor features auspicious Buddhist symbols—the conch shell, parasol, endless knot—in central cartouches, which are surrounded by intricate layers of bats, peonies, and floral tendrils. Each detail is elaborately carved out, with thin lacquer coats of different colors built up to create density and depth.

The function and the ornamentation of the work echo each other. The word “an-ping (table screen)” pronounced in reverse (ping-an) mimics the word “peace,” and so screens of this type were considered favorable display items in a wealthy household during the Qing dynasty. These screens were often smaller in size, yet still readily eye-catching when placed on a table or a shelf.