The Picnic Papers

Paper room dividers are often called decorative screens or merely room dividers depending on the design. The earliest examples of folding screens are said to have originated in China and go back at least as far as the Han dynasty. Screens of the era were heavy structures made of wood and had hinges of cloth or leather. They were adorned with elaborate landscape paintings that were typically created on silk or paper canvases and applied directly to the screen’s panels afterward. Just as they had been in the 20th century and today, the folding screens then were recognized for both their practical and purely decorative properties. Japanese room-divider screens were also decorated with paintings but constructed to be lightweight and mobile. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of room dividers and decorative screens.

Paper mache has its roots in China, with the inventors of paper itself. It then became popular in Europe, and it was through the Spaniards that paper mache entered Mexico. In Mexico, cartoneria or paper-mache sculptures are a traditional craft that goes back to the colonial period when the Spanish brought the art overseas. Shop a range of antique and modern paper mache on 1stDibs.

Robert Longo uses cold roll paper. The artist himself explained in an interview that the paper he prefers is not handmade, instead it is machine-made, archival paper. Longo is best known for his paintings that capture realistic moments and express the inner strength of his subjects. Shop a selection of Longo pieces from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.

The assembly of Noguchi Akari light sculptures depends on the model, as there are several models available. Take note of your exact model number and then consult the brand’s website for the multi-stepped process of assembly. Shop a range of vintage and modern Isamu Noguchi light sculptures on 1stDibs.