Description
A fan is a small, manually operated instrument used to fan oneself. It consists of separate fragments connected at one end. The rest is held together by fabric or another windproof material. By directing the fan toward the face, a draft is created through movement. The fan's shape is comparable to that of a peacock's tail spread open. For centuries, women have used fans to discreetly cool themselves. Many women were strapped in and wore numerous skirts and accessories. Women then used these fans to discreetly and elegantly display their wealth. Many fans were decorated and were precious objects. They were often made of expensive fabrics such as silk, velvet, satin, batiste, linen, lace, parchment, paper, bone, feathers, ivory, alabaster, silver, gold, wood, and mother-of-pearl. The finishing touches included intricate details, ranging from a bow or embroidery to diamonds and gemstones. In Japan during the Edo period, the fan was artistically painted and became a form of high art. Fans were used as a means of communication, to attract attention, and were an instrument in the art of seduction. This allowed for discreet signaling. By holding the fan in a certain position, people could play secret games. Fans were an indispensable accessory in various dances. Through the position of the fan in relation to the body, a woman sent revealing messages: 1. Pressing the fan against the right shoulder meant not wanting someone at all. 2. Touching the right eye with the fan meant wanting to arrange a date as soon as possible. 3. By covering both eyes with a fan, a woman indicated her love. 4. Pressing the fan against the left ear meant not wanting secrets to be revealed.
