The Fan: A Cultural Object Rediscovered by Fashion
The fan, an accessory with a deep-rooted history, transitioned from a practical item to a symbol of status and style. It has its origins in Asia, featuring Japan's rigid uchiwa and folding sensu, which were vital to aristocratic traditions and Nō theatre. Collections, such as that of the Victoria and Albert Museum, house Chinese fans from the 18th and 19th centuries, crafted from diverse materials. A remarkable piece from circa 1730 showcases an ivory mount and painted mica. The fan made its way to Europe through trade, with early specimens appearing in Portugal by the late 15th century. The 'Lady with a Fan' by Alonso Sánchez Coello at the Museo del Prado illustrates a Japanese fan. By the 17th and 18th centuries, it became a marker of high social standing, often made from opulent materials. Today, fashion houses like Duvelleroy are revitalizing the fan, emphasizing artisanal craftsmanship.
Key facts
- The fan originated in Asia, with Japan's uchiwa and sensu forms.
- Chinese fans from the 18th-19th centuries are in the Victoria and Albert Museum.
- A Chinese fan from c. 1730 has an ivory mount and painted mica with mother-of-pearl and kingfisher feathers.
- Fans arrived in Portugal by the late 15th century via trade routes.
- Alonso Sánchez Coello's 'Lady with a Fan' at the Prado depicts a Japanese folding fan.
- A French fan from 1780-1789 features watercolor pastoral scenes and ivory sticks.
- Francisco Goya used fans in works like 'Grupo de majas de paseo' and a portrait of Leocadia Zorrilla.
- The Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris holds 'L’exploit des aérostiers' (1783) and fans by contemporary designers.
- Duvelleroy, a Parisian fan maker, collaborates with contemporary designers.
- The fan's production involves woodworking, carving, printing, painting, and pleating.
Entities
Artists
- Alonso Sánchez Coello
- Francisco Goya
- Jean-Charles de Castelbajac
- Chloé Van Paris
- Giulio Solfrizzi
Institutions
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Museo del Prado
- Musée des Arts Décoratifs
- Duvelleroy
- Ritz
- Moulin Rouge
- Artribune
Locations
- Japan
- China
- Portugal
- London
- Paris
- France
- Valencia
- Madrid