This 1910s feather fan is a stunning example of history and elegance. Crafted with the finest wing feathers and attached to a delicate bamboo stem handle, it’s often called a "fixed" or "rigid" feather fan. It’s a rare piece from an era when Eastern influences captured the Western imagination.
The fascination with the East surged across Europe after the Ballet Russes debuted in Paris in 1909. The performance sparked an intrigue for the exotic and mysterious traditions of the Orient, which quickly found its way into fashion and art. In 1911, Paul Poiret hosted the iconic fancy dress ball, "La 1002 Nuit," showcasing his fashion collection inspired by the East. The event's success led to a broader embrace of Oriental-inspired fashion, including hand fans.
The legacy of the Yushan fan is deeply embedded in centuries of Chinese tradition. Named after the legendary Zhuge Liang, a military strategist from the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 C.E.), the fan symbolized his intellect and composure. Zhuge Liang's image became iconic, depicted in art holding a white feather fan. The fan is said to have swayed both his allies' and adversaries' hearts and minds.
This fan, crafted from white feathers, echoes the elegance of ancient Chinese traditions. Its design mirrors the Yushan fan, where a row of feathers was carefully attached to a handle, serving as a functional and symbolic object. Such fans were prized as symbols of sophistication, their graceful movements reflecting the dignity of their owners.
This antique Yo-Shun fan measures 13 1/2" wide and 11 1/2" long and has the graceful curve of a wing. When used, it offers a refreshing breeze. The bamboo handle, lacquered in white, shows subtle signs of use, adding to its character.
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