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Hand Fans Are Ancient Art Forms and Practical
By Beverly Marshall
Using a hand fan is still very popular today, especially in the Far East. At one time, using a fan stated your place in society. The earliest pictures of fans are found in China from 3000 BC but the Japanese are credited with this art form, and it is thought that the folding of the fan was to replicate the wings of a bat. You said a lot about yourself when you used this type of fan. I used one in church as a kid when we didn’t have air conditioning. Mine was not the folding style, but one that you would just wave. Now, hand fans are about any shape, design and material you can imagine. They can be political sayings and words on them, or they can literally have a picture of someone on them as well. We don’t seem to use hand fans as much here, maybe because every home and office seems to have air conditioning. We like having our hands free to multi task and it’s a little tough to do that and stay cool at the same time. There is something sort of mysterious about a hand fan. I think of shy women using a fan to hide their faces. We are more curious about what is hidden or things that seem to be forbidden. Using a hand fan can be just a form of eccentricity. The designer Karl Lagerfeld is always photographed with a fan. These art forms of the past should be pulled out and used whenever possible or simply mount them on a stand and admire their unique delicate artwork.
Hand fans are very delicate but sturdy enough to use on an every day basis. Treat them with care and they will last for a long time. Some tips for taking care of the folding fan would include: open and close them slowly as most will snap open or closed with only a slight gesture. If you apply too much strength, you can damage the fan. Take care when you put them in your purse or briefcase. They can easily damage if punctured by a pen or break if you have then in your pocket. Be careful not to put anything too heavy over them such as a camera. Some folding fans come with their own container for protection. Never let the fan get wet, and keep out of heat and humidity. If you have vintage fans on display, treat them as you would other pieces of art. Don’t let the elements damage them as they as very susceptible to heat, humidity and sunlight. Hand fans you will find today include:
• Hand-painted silk fans that do not fold are very traditional. They can be plain or be intricately painted
• Fans can be made of cloth and folded precisely. These can be used for party favors
• Wooden fans from bamboo are hand crafted to look like lace. They are great for bridal parties and come with stands if you just want to display them. A fan of sandalwood has a slight scent of the essential oil of sandalwood when you wave it.
• A bride may choose a lace fan as part of her dress design. It would be mostly decorative and a souvenir of the day. This is a popular custom in Asia
• Pocket fans are small enough to fold up and put in your purse of briefcase. They come in colors and patterns or for Halloween and Valentines Day.
• Red is the color of China, so try a red paper fan for a pop of color
• Feather – very elegant and they come in different colors. Do you remember the fan dances of burlesque?
• You can create your own design on a white paper fan. Try stenciling or just paint if whatever you wish
• Gold and silver foil that is embossed with a design are lovely for a fancy occasion
• Use a red white and blue fan on the Fourth of July.
Use them, love them and enjoy this ancient art form that is still functional today, however, I wouldn’t recommend you throw out the air conditioning.
About the Author
Bev Marshall is a successful freelance writer Aromatherapist and Feng Shui consultant offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying portable air conditioning, dehumidifier, air filter, ceiling fan and more. She gives information and tips to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.
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