Brisé fan, with representations of classical figures flanking Venus and Cupid

Based on a composition by Angelica Kauffmann Swiss

Not on view

This brisé fan- composed purely of ivory sticks- is a very fine example of Chinese carving. Particularly sought-after in Europe, beautifully worked ivory mounts were sent from China with blank medallions, which could be customized with painted vignettes once they arrived in Europe. This example has been painted, to a very high quality, with a central figure group of Venus and Cupid- amended from a design first developed by Swiss painter Angelica Kauffman (1741-1807)- flanked by flower-bearing nymphs. The painted paper ribbon which further embellishes the fan is original.

Brisé fan, with representations of classical figures flanking Venus and Cupid, Based on a composition by Angelica Kauffmann (Swiss, Chur 1741–1807 Rome), PIerced, carved, gilded and painted ivory; painted paper; metal, Chinese, for British market

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Front

Brisé fan, with representations of classical figures flanking Venus and Cupid, Based on a composition by Angelica Kauffmann (Swiss, Chur 1741–1807 Rome), PIerced, carved, gilded and painted ivory; painted paper; metal, Chinese, for British market
Brisé fan, with representations of classical figures flanking Venus and Cupid, Based on a composition by Angelica Kauffmann (Swiss, Chur 1741–1807 Rome), PIerced, carved, gilded and painted ivory; painted paper; metal, Chinese, for British market

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