History of the Japanese Shoji Screen

The Japanese use of the shoji screens dates back for many centuries. They are very important to their interior design as functional, yet artistic pieces in the home. The screens are gaining popularity all around the world.

The origin of shoji screens

The first shoji screens trace back to China in the 4th century B.C. Their use is depicted on tomb walls and literature. These screens were not movable and were heavy. Once the screens moved to Japan, they became lighter and more versatile, like the screens we are familiar with today.

Adaptation of the shoji screen

Shoji screens were used by the Japanese for many different reasons. They are used simply as room dividers, used during outdoor processions and festivals and used during special tea ceremonies. During the 16th century, the Portuguese missionaries saw how useful the screens could prove and changed it into a more European version. When Japan closed their borders for trade around 1600, the popularity declined.

Shoji screens today

In 1853 Japan opened their borders for trade and the popularity for shoji screens rose again. Soon, many variations of the screen were seen in America and Europe. Today, shoji screens are used to both divide rooms and as a simple, elegant form of art.

Shoji screens date back centuries and continue to serve as beautiful as both room dividers and art in the home. The Chinese first started using these screens and the trend has gone all around the world.