This is a pierced and carved sandalwood screen depicting cranes, a symbolic of longevity in Chinese culture. The inscription in the corner of both sides of the screen reads "Jixiang" and "Ruyi", and when read together can be taken to mean "good luck as you may wish it".

The screen incorporates many of the traditional Chinese woodcarving methods of preserving the original textures and colors of the wood, and enhancing the surface to make it appear smooth and lustrous.

This screen was presented by Jiang Zemin, former President of China in 2002 on the occasion of the Queen Elizabeth II 's Golden Jubilee. [Photo/Royal Collection Trust]