The big screen

Twenty-eight folding lacquer screens 1.2m wide, done in bright red and framed in black, rise 2.9 m high to separate a 300-sq-m-hall into three parts. Each side of the screen features aspects of 56 of China's ethnic groups.

On the wall in the center of the hall hangs a giant lacquer painting donated by Hao Bangyi, a noted contemporary Chinese artist. Showing rich details of Chinese ink and brush techniques, the painting is called Magpies Leap in the Plum Blossom. Magpie has traditionally been considered an auspicious bird that is supposed to bring good luck while the plum blossom symbolizes a tough spirit as the flower blooms in ice-cold winter. The painting done in pure gold foil, shell and gold powder is approximately 15 sq m.

All these are part of the major decorations of the Honored Guests Hall in the National Stadium in Beijing.