Rare & Exquisite 18th Century Ladies' Hand Fan

Antiques : Accessories : Ladies Fans, 18th Century

 

This gorgeous Brise Hand Fan dates to the first half of the 1700's, and has the tell tale markings of about 1730.

Wooden sticks begin narrow graduating in width towards the 7 inch point and then narrow again to support the leaf. There is a small separation at about 7" between the sticks and the Pointe de Gauze leaf, quite typical of the period to create a self frame for the wonderful applied painting on the lower sticks. In actuality, the sticks go right up to back the leaf which can be clearly seen from the back.

The scene is entirely romantic with several couples, a single lady and a young girl tending her pup. They all appear in a garden.

The guard sticks are 9" long, very simple and from polished wood. The original grommet to hold the fan together is also simple in what looks to be darkened brass. Of course there is no loop (these came later in the 19th century).

CONDITION: A very fine quality fan. Expected wear to the painting and a slight thinning of the gauze (no holes) on the leaf with very slight fraying at the top are each age appropriate. There are 3 slivers of wood missing from the sticks which can be seen on the rear view. We have considered the condition in the pricing of this piece. The fan is in delicate but sturdy enough to be handled carefully - and in very fine condition for its' 270 odd years of age!

A wonderful frame is deserving - and would insure this beautiful fan lives on to surpass its' 300th birthday!

* Please note, we have another exceptional 18th century fan badly in need of restoration. It is not for sale, but I think it much too fine to discard. We are looking to find it a good home with some fine person who may be able to tackle the job as a project. Please be in touch with me if you are a talented collector or restorer of antique fans. It would be my pleasure to gift it to you.

Item ID: R936