VTG Folding Hand Fan Lucite Staves Floral Roses Lace Trim 17" - Spain / Export

Mid-Century Decorative 17 Inches Open Spain / Export c.1950s–70s

Overview

A large and well-preserved vintage decorative folding hand fan in the rococo revival style. The cream/ivory lucite or celluloid staves feature pierced filigree stickwork — characteristic of mid-20th century ornamental fan production centered in Spain's Valencia region and parallel East Asian export workshops supplying the Western gift and souvenir market from the 1950s through 1970s. The translucent fabric leaf carries bold floral motifs — roses in deep red, pink, purple, and amber — that glow warmly when held to the light, finished with a lace border along the full outer arc.

Details

TypeFolding hand fan — decorative / ornamental
Frame / StavesLucite / celluloid — cream/ivory, pierced filigree stickwork
LeafTranslucent fabric — bold floral roses in red, pink, purple & amber
TrimLace border along full outer arc
Width (open)Approximately 17 inches
StyleRococo revival / Victorian-inspired floral
EraCirca 1950s–1970s
OriginSpain (Valencia region) or East Asian export — Western gift market
Intended UseOrnamental — gift, display, dresser accessory, costume

Features & Appeal

  • Oversized 17" span — striking as display or statement accessory
  • Pierced filigree lucite staves — quality mid-century decorative craft
  • Translucent floral leaf glows beautifully when held to light
  • Full lace border trim along outer arc
  • Suitable for display, period costume, theatrical use, photography, or boudoir decor
  • Rococo revival aesthetic blending historical European design with mid-century materials

Historical Context

This fan belongs to a well-documented category of mid-20th century decorative fans produced primarily in Spain's Valencia region and export workshops in East Asia for the Western gift and souvenir market. Sold through gift shops, department store accessory counters, and tourist markets from the 1950s through the 1970s, these fans served as ornamental gifts and dresser display pieces rather than functional accessories. The combination of rococo-revival pierced stickwork and bold floral printing reflects the era's approach to making decorative goods inspired by historical European aesthetics available to a broad middle-class consumer.

Condition

Good vintage condition. Fan opens and closes smoothly. Lace border and leaf are intact with no tears noted. Staves show light age patina consistent with vintage lucite/celluloid. Please review all listing photos prior to purchase.