AN EXQUISITE ANTIQUE FOLDING HAND FAN

Probably mid to late 19th century

Monture is bovine (cattle) bone with

pierced, painted and incised decoration. One stick missing. Plus one guard snapped. Still very good condition. The silk leaf is hand painted and signed. Silk is overlaid on a net base. Also sequinned decoration.

Guard height when closed 22cm 15 sticks . . Two guards 40cm from edge to edge fanned out.

Fans were a major part of a Victorian ladies attire and they served a larger purpose than to provide relief from the heat. Fans were used as a form of silent communication between the lady and a prospective gentleman.  They signalled permission to kiss, to convey the lady was already in a relationship or even when she was angered. There was an entire silent language around the fan and historically it’s significance is fascinating. It was understood by both sexes and what the positions and signals conveyed. An extremely important part of social etiquette and were often one of the most decorative items a lady owned. In holding these beautiful historic artefacts , know they have been used in this silent communication. Sheer joy.