Max Keuhne’s modernist screens bridge the divide between “fine” and “decorative” art. Inspired by Japanese art and European modernist aesthetics, the German-born painter, printmaker, frame maker, and furniture designer layered colors and materials, coating each panel with gesso (proteinaceous glue mixed with chalk). Next, he smoothed the surface with bole, a refined clay-like material, and then applied silver leaf, using a water gilding method that leaves a bright, lustrous finish. Sometimes he added iridescent effects by oxidizing the silver leaf with a sulphur compound. The blossoms are painted with a water-soluble pigment. By intentionally rubbing certain areas, he exposed the reddish bole underneath. Further details are incised through the various layers down to the white gesso. The sophisticated elegance of Kuehne’s work attracted a large and powerful American clientele.