Brisé fan

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

### Brisé Fan (1840–60) Step into the elegant world of mid-19th-century fashion this delicate *Brisé fan*, a charming accessory from the Victorian era. Dating to 1840–60, this unknown artist's creation exemplifies the intricate hand-held fans that were essential for women in polite society. Made as part of costume and accessories, *brisé* fans—named from the French word for "broken"—feature segmented leaves or sticks, often intricately carved or pierced, allowing them to fold compactly while offering a playful, lacy aesthetic. These fans weren't just functional for cooling in stuffy ballrooms; they served as subtle tools for flirtation, with gestures conveying secret messages in the language of the fan. Crafted during a time of burgeoning American style influenced by European trends, this fan highlights the artistry in everyday adornments. Materials like ivory, bone, or mother-of-pearl were common, adorned with delicate piercings that created shadow play when held to the light—a technique showcasing skilled craftsmanship. As a gift to the Smithsonian American Art Museum from Clarence Hoblitzelle, it joins the Smithsonian Collection, preserving a slice of social history amid ongoing research. Though details are still emerging, this fan invites us to imagine the rustle of silk gowns and the whisper of courtship, reminding us how personal objects captured the grace and ingenuity of their time. (198 words)

About the Artist

Unknown

The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...