Beyond the Veil

Across cultures and epochs, curtains have influenced human perception, directing attention and framing transitions between spheres. They simultaneously conceal and reveal, captivating the viewers’ imagination and desire. From Antiquity to the modern era, curtains have been integral to staging esteemed persons, venerated objects, and sacred images. Whether in sacred spaces, imperial courts, mobile tents, or domestic settings, curtains serve as performative elements, evoking mystery, heightening expectations, and intensifying the viewing experience. Beyond the visual realm, curtains utilize acoustics to create immersive environments. Through various media and cultural expressions, curtains frame and guide human perception and enrich a collective understanding of history and society. International researchers took an interdisciplinary look at and behind the curtain to reveal new insights.