In earlier times hand fans were used to communicate. And in fact, the role of the fan was not only for cooling, or as a fly swatter or fire-bellows.
It was also the supreme instrument of silent communication. As Sir Richard Steele, in the Tatler of 4 August 1709, wrote: You may observe in all public Assemblies the sexes seems to separate themselves and to attack each other with eye-shot, that is the time when the fan, which is the armour of woman, is of most use in her defence, for our minds are constructed by the waving of that little instrument, and our thoughts appear in composure or agitation according to the motion of it. In earlier times, an infinite variety of meaning could be found in the motion and flutter of a hand fan.
Carrying in the right hand.... Carrying in the left hand, open.... Come and talk to me.Carrying in the right hand, in front of the face.... Carrying in the left hand, in front of the face.... Clasping the hands under the open fan.... Forgive me, I pray you. Drawing across the cheek:I love you.
Drawing across the forehead:You have changed. Gazing pensively at the shut fan.... Why do you misunderstand me? Letting it rest on the right cheek....
With the little finger extended.... Placing it on the left ear.... I wish to get rid of you. Shut fully-opened fan very slowly.... I promise to marry you. Shut fan held to the heart.... You have won my love. Shut fan resting on the right eye.... When may I be allowed to seeyou? Touching the unfolded fan in the act of waving.... I long always to benear you. I wish to speak to you. Twirling in the left hand....Please study the photos as these form an integral part of the description. Please see my other items. The item "ANTIQUE 19th CENTURY QING DYNASTY CARVED CHINESE HAND EMBROIDERED SILK FAN" is in sale since Sunday, August 18, 2019.
This item is in the category "Clothes, Shoes & Accessories\Specialty\Vintage Clothing & Accessories\Vintage Accessories\Hand Fans". The seller is "antique_silver_uk" and is located in Lancaster. This item can be shipped worldwide.