Also known as room dividers, folding screens are versatile and stylish pieces of furniture that have been used for centuries across various cultures. Some historians date their origin back to the Han Dynasty in China, while others suggest that both the Persians and the Romans used some forms of room dividers. The Romans, specifically, were known for using curtains and temporary walls for privacy and space management. In wealthy households, it was common to deploy ornate textiles on wooden structures to create private spaces within larger rooms, serving a similar purpose to folding screens.

Many ancient designs originated in various parts of Asia – including Japan and Korea – and were often made of wood and adorned with intricate paintings showcasing landscapes, birds, and flowers, reflecting the artistry and cultural values of the time. In Europe, folding screens gained popularity during the 17th and 18th centuries, often decorated with tapestries and used in grand homes as statement pieces. Keen collectors and aesthetes would commission sophisticated screens in lacquer embellished with exotic motifs heavily inspired by Asian art. A beautiful example is a rare ensemble of panels in black lacquer and hand-painted motifs commissioned in the 19th century by a wealthy Venetian, now restored to its splendor and on view at Féau Boiseries in Paris. Interest in these beautifully crafted pieces faded away from the late 1940s, but today, these versatile decorating elements are popular again and regarded as cherished additions to interior design.

Invisible Collection presents a curated selection of folding screens created by celebrated designers, including AD100 honorees, and crafted by the best artisans in France and the rest of Europe. Highlights from the collection include one-of-a-kind works by Garcé & Dimofski. The design duo has been collaborating with New York-based artist Joe Baker to create stunning pieces featuring random, hand-painted splashes of color. Additionally, they enriched their offering with a unique design inspired by the Swedish Grace movement, made of solid wood and embellished with bas-reliefs in white plaster. French designer Marion Stora has also been exploring the many possibilities offered by folding screens. Working closely with artist-cum-designer Pierre Bonnefille, she has created a fascinating design featuring Bonnefille’s signature textured surface of mixed mineral powders and pigments.