What's in a screen?

It all began with an estate sale. I was in a lovely, older section of town, right on the Lake Erie shore, and was excited just to be in one of the gorgeous mansions. I continued to tour the house, ending up in the fourth floor attic, when I spotted these old panels. They were part of a school play set. The panels contained all of my favorite colors, I loved the scene and I knew I was sunk when I saw them! Needless to say, they have traveled with me for the past 20 years!

Here is the entire screen of three panels. They are made of felt and are very fragile. Somehow, they've made it through 3 children and four dogs!

I usually show it like this, as only 2 panels fit at once.

I have always loved screens, not only as room dividers, but as design elements. 
Here are screens, some antique and some new, that have been embellished with gilding. Either for the background or as part of the actual design, gold and silver leaf add their own special beauty.

Photo by Gordon Beall in Country French Decorating

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Photo by Gordon Beall in Traditional Home

These screens are created using wallpaper. I love this idea! Lisa, of Hamptontoes, are you listening? With your great wallpaper finds, they would be perfect!

Photo by Stephen Clement in Maisons de Campagne

Essentially French

 

Pierre Frey

I think that this "screen", which is actually etched pattern glass, is stunning. Of course, the whole photo is!

Merletto from Bendheim in the Robert A.M. Stern Collection

And if you are in a funky, Miami state of mind, here is a fun, contemporary screen:

 
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