Room dividers are an Asian furniture staple with deep historical roots. Folding room dividers originated in China during the 4th century BC. Early dividers functioned as both decorations and furnishings, and they served as heavy and ornate works of art. Due to their weight and size, these early dividers weren’t easy to move and were intended to stay in the same place.
Later, room dividers were improved upon by the Japanese, the earliest of which was the “byobu” folding screen. Later, a hinged screen known as the “shoji” was created in order to make the dividers more portable, and they consisted of lightweight translucent paper. These screens were most commonly used during tea ceremonies, outdoor processions, religious events, and public performances.
Americans and Europeans began to adopt their own adaptation of the screens in the 15th – 17th centuries. However, they used different materials, including painted leather, wood, tapestry, and embroidery. Not only were they beautiful, but they also served as an inexpensive and efficient way to prevent drafts within a large room.