When a potential suitor paid a visit, however, the daughter of the house might take a peek at him from a screen behind which she would be completely concealed.

Her father would discuss literature with the young man and ask him to compose an impromptu poem. If the composition of the poem - and the man's good looks - impressed the young woman and her father, she might agree to take him as a husband.

Old ‘pingfengs’ in modern homes

Today the pingfeng is back in vogue for its distinctive Eastern elegance, as well as its practical function as an exotic piece of furniture that can act as a moving wall or divider, and create space in a room.

Well-chosen oriental furniture can be the perfect match for the simple and light colors of modern sofas, walls and cushions.

In a large sitting room or bedroom you can use a pingfeng to divide the area. Old fretwork wooden windows can also be put together to form a screen.

The ancient Chinese pingfeng can add character and defining style to even the most modern room.