A tsuitate (衝立) is a form of single-panel portable partition traditionally used in Japan since at least the 6th century.^[1] They may be made of wood, or a wood frame covered in paper or silk cloth.^[1][2] The panels are often illustrated, with paintings on both sides, sometimes by well-known artists.^[1] The wood frame may be lacquered,^[1][3] and pricier tsuitate may be very richly decorated, including use of precious metals.^[3]

Apart from their use as works of art, they are often used to screen entrances, and block wind and sun^[2] They may also partition rooms, divide the public part of a shop from the residential area behind, and act as a signboard.^[1]

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  A robust all-wood tsuitate, screening a fire from drafts in a rural house (history exhibit)
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  A tall 1700s tsuitate, presumably a replica konmeichi screen.^[4]
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  Tsuitate could be made in one piece, or as here, with a separate stand and panel^[5]
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  Tsuitate are traditionally used to screen entrances^[6]
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  A print of a painting by Kawanabe Kyōsai, depicitng a tsuitate screen painted by Kyōsai, complete with his signature on the screen^[7]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Tsuitate (standing screen).

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