Fan
Date1781-1782
OriginEurope, Netherlands
MediumPaper, Paint, Gilt Paint, Bone Stick, Brass Ring, Mother-of-Pearl (Hinge)
DimensionsLength : 9"; Width when opened: 17 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1968-643,A
DescriptionFan painted with a central scene showing a naval engagement in which Dutch ships are battling an English ship. Two smaller vignettes at left and right of the main scene show guns firing from a fort, and a mermaid carrying the Dutch flag bearing the name Zoutman. Fan has floral borders and gold edging. On the reverse the fan is painted with a bouquet of roses in center. Sticks of plain bone with a brass ring through the hinge.Cardboard is not original to fan.
Construction History:
1. 1781-1782 Initial Construction
2. Date Unknown- repairs made to back
Label TextThis fan commemorates a 1781 battle in the Fourth Anglo-Dutch War, which is considered part of the American War of Independence. The Dutch, under Vice Admiral Johan Zoütman, whose name is shown on the flag held by the mermaid, fought the British in the North Sea. The Dutch claimed victory, despite heavy casualties.
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