This richly decorated wooden arch was once placed above a window on the exterior of a 19th Century Chinese house. Chinese houses in Gansu Province were constructed primarily of brick but with elaborately carved wooden window frames, doors and interior walls. This arch is protected with a coat of oxblood lacquer and further enhanced with gold leaf on carved fretwork. The carving features interwoven vines and bats, which symbolize long life. The arched shape provides a dramatic and lively counterpoint to rectangular rooms and windows. The piece is relatively lightweight and easily wall-mounted.