Anglo-Indian Carved Folding Screen (Room Divider, Jali Screen)
Other: Folding Room Divider / Decorative Screen · Anglo-Indian / Colonial Revival style, reflecting early to mid-20th century craftsmanship traditions. · Artisan hand-crafted in Saharanpur, India, known for traditional wood carving centers.
Type
Other: Folding Room Divider / Decorative Screen
Style Period
Anglo-Indian / Colonial Revival style, reflecting early to mid-20th century craftsmanship traditions.
Material
Solid Sheesham wood (Indian Rosewood) or Teak; brass piano-style hinges.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960–1980 based on the hardware type and the style of the relief carving.
Dimensions
Height: 72 inches; Total Width (fully extended): 80 inches; Panel Width: 20 inches each; Thickness: 1 inch.
Origin
Saharanpur region, Uttar Pradesh, Northern India; common export to Western markets throughout the 20th century.
Designer/Maker
Artisan hand-crafted in Saharanpur, India, known for traditional wood carving centers.
Value Estimate
$400 – $850 USD based on retail market availability and level of carving detail.
Description
An exquisite four-panel room divider featuring meticulous hand-carved floral motifs and traditional jali fretwork. Each panel is topped with a decorative crown-like arch, giving it a regal architectural presence. The open-work design provides a semi-private barrier that filters light beautifully, making it both a functional furniture piece and a work of art.
Key Features
Arched top panels (Taj-style), intricate vine and floral relief carving, pierced 'jali' fretwork segments, and four-way folding capability.
Color & Finish
Deep reddish-brown stain with a low-luster wax or oil finish; natural aged wood patina.
Construction Method
Hand-carved panels featuring intricate open-work fretwork (jali) and relief carving; four-panel hinged assembly.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mortise and tenon frame construction with inset hand-carved panels; intricate piercings indicate skilled manual chisel work.
Wood Grain & Species
Visible tight, dark grain consistent with Indian Rosewood (Sheesham) or Mango wood; uniform texture across panels.
Surface Treatment
Allover hand-carving featuring floral, vine, and leaf motifs; pierced fretwork allows light to pass through.
Upholstery Details
None; this is a non-upholstered wooden structural piece.
Hardware & Fittings
Inlaid brass butterfly or piano hinges connecting the four panels; likely original brass finish.
Origin & Provenance
Saharanpur region, Uttar Pradesh, Northern India; common export to Western markets throughout the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Good condition; structural integrity remains solid. Minimal evidence of wood shrinkage or split panels; hinges appear functional.
Interesting Facts
The 'Jali' style of carving was originally used in Indian architecture to provide ventilation in hot climates while offering privacy for indoor inhabitants.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of Indian artisan techniques with Victorian and Edwardian preferences for exotic, decorative home accents.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Chinese Coromandel screens (lacquered) or Moorish screens (geometric rather than floral); distinguished by its heavy floral relief and specific wood type.
Care & Maintenance
Dust regularly with a soft brush to clean crevices; apply high-quality furniture wax annually; keep away from direct sunlight and heat registers to prevent wood cracking.
Value Estimate
$400 – $850 USD based on retail market availability and level of carving detail.
Sustainability Notes
Handcrafted from solid timber, representing high durability and longevity; wood is likely from renewable Indian timber plantations.