Pair of Antique Chinese Ruyi Cloud Lattice Panels

Two tall lattice panels, each a grid of slender wooden bars with a cloud-shaped medallion at the center and curled ruyi scrolls tucked into the corners. The bars are fitted square and finished in a dark brown that has softened to a warm red-brown at the edges. There is no glass or paper in them, so light and the wall behind pass straight through. The two panels match closely, with small differences in the bars that come from hand fitting. These panels came from windows of the kind that opened Chinese rooms to light and air. Today they hang as a pair on a wall, stand in front of a window, or lean together behind a sofa. Each is 28.5 inches wide and 49 inches tall, so a pair covers about five feet of wall. Because they are open, they read as drawing in the air rather than as a solid surface. Specifications Era: Antique, late Qing to early Republic Origin: China Material: Wood Size: 28.5"(W) x 2"(D) x 49"(H) each, pair Color: Dark brown with red-brown edges Condition: Used antique. Wear consistent with age & use, which is part of its character & historical value. This pair of antique Chinese lattice window panels has an open wooden grid with a central cloud medallion and ruyi scrolls in the corners. Each panel measures 28.5 inches wide and 49 inches tall. They suit a wall, a window or a room divider. Q&A 1. What is a Chinese lattice window and what does the ruyi cloud motif mean? A Chinese lattice window is a wooden frame with a grid or pattern of bars, once covered in paper to let in soft light and air. The ruyi cloud is a curling shape that stands for good fortune and wishes granted, and it often appears in the corners and centers of lattice patterns. 2. How can I use antique lattice panels in a modern room? Hang them as a pair on a plain wall, stand them in front of a window, or use them as a loose divider. Their open shape keeps a modern room light. A single dark tone against white plaster is the simplest and strongest way to show them. **Please bear in mind that colors of products shown may vary slightly from their original color due to monitor display settings or photography studio