The oldest written record about fans in China from 1825 B.C., mentions two rigid feathered objects that were offered to Emperor Tchao Wong from the Zhou Dynasty.
The use of fans in China dates back to 4000 years ago. Used by men and women, it is both practical and sophisticated, a cultural product of beauty, status and power. Present in dance, theater and rituals, the fan art and culture expanded throughout the Chinese territory and beyond, extending to Korea and Japan,
diversifying its use, materials and formats. In Europe and later on in the US, the Chinese fan was a fashion object imported in great quantities from the 17th to the 19th century.
This rigid fan is exquisitively carved and pierced sandalwood, following the southern Chinese style, where the high temperatures and humidity make the fan an indispensable accesory.