Atsuitate (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]
![A tall 1700s tsuitate, presumably a replica konmeichi screen.[4]](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:%E8%88%9E%E5%A7%AB%E5%9B%B3%E3%83%BB%E7%B4%85%E8%91%89%E8%92%94%E7%B5%B5%E8%A1%9D%E7%AB%8B-Freestanding_Screen_with_Dancer_MET_29_100_520.jpeg)
![Tsuitate could be made in one piece, or as here, with a separate stand and panel[5]](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:JapanHomes161_TSUI-TATE.jpg)
![Tsuitate are traditionally used to screen entrances[6]](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kominnkano_mouhitotu_no_iriguti.jpg)
![A print of a painting by Kawanabe Kyōsai, depicitng a tsuitate screen painted by Kyōsai, complete with his signature on the screen[7]](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Brooklyn_Museum_-_Standing_Screen_%28Tsuitate%29_of_a_Tiger_-_Kawanabe_Kyosai_-_overall.jpg)
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Elements of Japanese architecture
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| Rooms |
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| Partitions |
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