Fan

Date1780-1800

OriginEngland; used in America, Virginia

MediumBone sticks, laid paper with engraving, ink, watercolor, copper alloy sequins, mother of pearl, wooden ribs.

DimensionsLength: 10"; Width When Open: 17"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1978-90,A

DescriptionFan with 20 pierced bone sticks on a metal pivot. Fan opens to 2/3 of a circle with a paper mount. Decoration on mount includes a central gold oval, enclosing a stipple-and-line engraving of a bust of Shakespeare within a smaller oval. An angel representing Fame blows a trumpet above. Masks of comedy and tragedy are below. On either side of the central oval are painted blue circles with white flowers, surrounded by a double row of stitched spangles. Pink and green floral swags fill the reserve. Outer border of silver leaves. Reverse of fan has two leafy vines.
Label TextThis fan was used in Suffolk, Virginia by Catharine Reid. The designs refer to the plays of Shakespeare, with a bust of the playwright, as well as masks of comedy and tragedy.
Inscribed"Suffolk Miss Catharine Reid" Note: tag attached to case (b) states that "Catherine Reid was the sister of Elizabeth Reid--wife of Capt. Ed. Allen & dau. of John & Mary Reid.

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