Fan

Art Historical Context

This exquisite 18th-century French, crafted from ivory, exemplifies the refined artistry of European decorative arts during the Rococo. Measuring 8½ x 14 inches (21.6 x 35.6 cm), it delicate motifs of horses, men and women—likely capturing a lively equestrian scene or aristocratic hunt, common themes in period fan designs that celebrated leisure and nobility. Though the artist remains unknown, the fan's intricate carving or painting on ivory showcases the technical mastery required for such luxury objects, where fine details brought narratives to life on a portable accessory. In 18th-century France, fans were far more than functional tools for cooling or shielding blushes; they were essential fashion statements for women in high society, doubling as subtle tools for flirtation and social signaling through gestures and hidden messages. Ivory, a prized material imported from distant trade routes, underscored the owner's wealth and taste, often adorned with gilding or pierced latticework for added elegance. Generously gifted to the Metropolitan Museum of Art by Mrs. William Randolph Hearst in 1963, this fan offers a glimpse into Versailles-era opulence, inviting visitors to imagine the rustle of silk gowns and the clip-clop of horses in royal gardens. A true gem of the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection.