Fan
Unknown Artist
1830–60
Medium
horn, silk
Classification
Fan
Culture
French
Department
Costume Institute
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of The Daughters of Allison Pierce Moore, 1975
Accession Number
1975.230.2
Art Historical Context
This delicate fan, crafted in France between 1830 and 1860, exemplifies the refined accessories of mid-19th high society. Made from horn—likely sourced from animal guards for its sturdy yet lightweight structure—and luxurious silk for the leaf, it reflects the era's blend of natural materials and fine textiles. Horn provided durability and a subtle translucency when carved, while silk allowed for intricate pleating and decoration, making fans both functional and fashionable. During the July Mon and early Second Empire, fans were essential for women at balls, operas, and social gatherings. The...