Fan
Date1750-1760
OriginEurope, France
MediumChicken Skin (Mount); Ivory (Sticks); Paste and Metal Rivet (Hinge); Paint; Gold Paint; Gilt
DimensionsLength: 11 3/4"; Width: 21 3/4"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1936-598
DescriptionFolding Fan with chicken skin mount and painted scene in a wooded area of man offering a string of beads to a woman in front of a well. A large ornamented pitcher sits next to her. A second woman fills a jug with water while seated next to the well. In the bushes behind the well is a young man with two animals, likely camels. The scene is surrounded by a floral border at the top and sides. Within the floral border are images of instruments and two butterflies at either side of the scene. A length of gilt tape runs along the top edge of the fan. On the reverse of the fan is painted three floral sprays, a large central spray of red flowers and two smaller purple sprays on either side. The Ivory guards are shaped and pierced with images of cupids, scrolls, flowers, small structures, and baskets. The carvings are painted with color and gilt painted. At the hinge is a small red paste rivet set into a metal setting.Construction History:
1. 1750-1760 initial construction
2. January 19th, 1954, Ernest LaNano "Cleaning, repairing, and restoring" Repairs done to one stick.