Historical information

This fan is likely Chinese or Japanese, from the early 20th century. The material and delicacy of the design suggest it was intended for display or formal wear rather than practical use. Pierced fans like this were sometimes gifted or collected as ornamental objects.
AHS original, local collection

Physical description

Fan 2 – White Pierced Fan with Intricate Cutwork
A white folding fan made entirely of intricately pierced sticks, each featuring delicate lattice-like patterns. The design is highly symmetrical, with some geometric and floral motifs repeated along the arc. There is a small ribbon hinge at the base, keeping the sticks aligned. A few small Chinese characters are visible on the lower right, likely the maker’s signature or a poem.