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Folding Fan with Trompe l'Oeil Representations of Fans, Scrolls, and Figure Groups

19th century
Not on view
The strong association of the fan with Asia is reinforced by this design—featuring fans scattered across the leaf—made in China for the European market. A robust industry of fans designed for export to Europe developed in Guangdong in the eighteenth century, following the establishment of Guangzhou (Canton) as the exclusive center of foreign trade. Cantonese export fans were known especially for the fine carving of the ivory sticks.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Folding Fan with Trompe l'Oeil Representations of Fans, Scrolls, and Figure Groups
  • Date: 19th century
  • Culture: Chinese, for the European Market
  • Medium: Gouache on parchment; gilded ivory
  • Dimensions: 10 1/2 x 19 1/2 in. (26.7 x 49.5 cm)
  • Classification: Fans
  • Credit Line: Bequest of Mary Strong Shattuck, 1935
  • Object Number: 35.80.43
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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