Antique Hand Fan Circa 1740
An extremely rare 18th-century hand fan dating to the 1740s, distinguished by its unusually narrow 120-degree opening angle and notably sturdy construction. While robust in form, the monture is nevertheless finely and sensitively carved, displaying exquisite figures, ornamental patterns, and carefully worked textures that speak to the highest level of craftsmanship of the period.
The elegant hand-painted leaf presents a charming scene of bucolic country life, with gentlemen and ladies strolling among gentle sheep in a pastoral landscape. Particularly striking is the use of blue pigment, an uncommon and distinctive choice for fans of this era, lending the composition a fresh and refined character.
A fan of exceptional rarity and presence, this piece stands out not only for its early date but also for its unusual structural and artistic qualities—a truly rare find for the serious collector of 18th-century fans.