Fan

Art Historical Context

This exquisite fan, crafted in the third quarter of the 18 century, exemplifies the opulent artistry of Qing Dynasty China. Made from a luxurious array of materials—ivory, mother-of-l, parchment painted with gouache, tortoiseshell, and metal—it served as both a practical accessory and a status symbol for men and women. The delicate gouache scenes, likely depicting elegant figures amid blooming flowers as suggested by its motifs, highlight the meticulous techniques of Chinese fan-making, where every layer of inlay and pigment contributed to a shimmering, multifaceted beauty. In 18th-century Ch...