Fan
Artist/Culture
Chinese
Date19th Century
Mediumcarved sandalwood
Dimensions20 x 34.6 cm (7 7/8 x 13 5/8 in.)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel T. Hobbs, through the bequest of Mrs. Anna N. W. Hobbs
Terms
Object number1957.63
Label TextThis carved sandalwood fan is a specialty of Canton (Guangdong) in the 19th century. Sandalwood was a type of plant that originally grows in Africa, Australia, India and Indonesia, and was later introduced to Guangdong Province in China. Sandalwood was used in China for carving Buddhist sculptures, making furniture, as well as fashioning scholars’ studio objects such as brush pots. Sandalwood has a unique fragrance that is long-lasting. The technique used to carve this sandalwood fan is similar to that in making an ivory brisé fan, and the patterns on this fan also resonate with the common designs on an ivory fan. According to Carl L. Crossman, the sandalwood fan was one of the major types of fans that were imported to the United States and were exhibited in decorative art fairs in the 19th century. Although the price of a sandalwood fan was less expensive than an ivory fan, it was considered as a high-end material for crafts. Because of its subtle fragrance, it was particularly valued for making into a fan that can bring a perfumed breeze in the summer heat.On View
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