Extraordinary Chinese Qing Dynasty gilt bronze cloisonne table screen, in tall rectangular panel. The cloisonne work of colorful enamel against turquoise blue ground with a depicted beautiful landscape describing three sheep, within the edges of a grassy field beneath bamboo and flowering cherry tree. A themed title poem gilt calligraphy is on the right top landscape. Cloisonne is mounted on carved hardwood frame stand, formed by two steady scrolled feet, which rise vertical posts flanked on either side. Note : In Chinese culture, the symbol of the sheep is a very lucky one, and the docile animal plays a role in many myths and tales throughout history. The written character for “sheep” was often used for “luck”, and the animal has been considered lucky ever since. Sheep were a common wedding gift, adding to their social status as a revered animal. Carved jade pendants of sheep are popular good luck charms. Speaking of jade, rare white jade is often referred to as “sheep suet jade” due to the high value that a sheep holds in Chinese culture. Chinese also see the sheep as a symbol of gratitude towards one’s parents, because of the way a young lamb will kneel down to nurse. This kneeling or bowing is considered a very respectful gesture, even for animals. Dimensions: Height: 42 1/2"Width: 25 1/4"Depth: 11 3/4"