European Fans: The Untold Story

Fans have played various roles throughout history, from cooling tools to symbols of royal power. This book showcases European fans made in the French Rococo and Rococo Revival styles, providing insight into the lives of European royalty and aristocracy. Sixty-six examples from the Eurus Collection in South Korea are featured, showcasing the intermingling of cultures and the aesthetic preferences of the time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2022
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

Throughout history, fans have played diverse roles, ranging from personal items to cool the user, tools for religious and ceremonial events, symbols of royal power and authority, or important fashion accessories. As practical, symbolic, and decorative objects, fans have served as the intersection of multiple artistic disciplines. This book specifically focuses on European fans crafted in the French Rococo style during the 18th century and the Rococo Revival style that emerged in the 19th century. Sixty-six exceptional examples, carefully selected from the Eurus Collection in South Korea, provide a captivating glimpse into the lives of European royalty and aristocracy, showcasing their aesthetic preferences, ideals, and perspectives on nature. Moreover, these fans illustrate the rich cultural exchange that occurred between Europe and the East, resulting in the emergence of new painting and craft styles influenced by trade.

This beautifully illustrated book delves into the thematic and stylistic aspects of fans, as well as their assembly and production processes. It invites readers to uncover the untold stories behind these intricate objects, shedding light on their historical significance and cultural impact.

Fans have evolved from simple tools to intricate works of art, reflecting the changing social and cultural dynamics of different periods. They have been used to express personal style, convey messages, and maintain social etiquette. In the 18th century, the French Rococo style, characterized by its elaborate and extravagant designs, emerged as a popular fan design. Fans during this period were often adorned with intricate carvings, gilding, and precious stones, reflecting the opulence and luxury of the French court.

The Rococo Revival style, which emerged in the 19th century, continued the tradition of elegant and ornate fan design. Fans during this period were often inspired by the natural world, with flowers, birds, and insects being popular motifs. The Revival style also incorporated elements of other artistic movements, such as the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized simplicity and craftsmanship.

Fans have played a significant role in the lives of European royalty and aristocracy, not only as fashion accessories but also as symbols of their status and power. They were often used to convey messages and signals during courtly events, such as indicating a woman's marital status or expressing a man's loyalty. Fans were also used to cool the user in hot weather, as they could be fanning oneself or others.

Beyond their practical and symbolic purposes, fans have also been admired for their artistic beauty and craftsmanship. They have been the subject of numerous paintings, sculptures, and literature, and have inspired many artists throughout history. Fans have been depicted in various ways, from realistic representations to abstract interpretations, reflecting the diverse artistic styles and cultural influences of different periods.

In conclusion, fans have played a multifaceted role throughout history, serving as practical, symbolic, and decorative objects. From the French Rococo style in the 18th century to the Rococo Revival style in the 19th century, fans have evolved to reflect the changing aesthetic preferences and cultural exchange of different periods. These intricate objects have been used to express personal style, convey messages, and maintain social etiquette, and have also been admired for their artistic beauty and craftsmanship. Fans continue to be a fascinating subject of study and appreciation, offering a glimpse into the lives of European royalty and aristocracy and the rich cultural heritage of different regions.

Weight: 880g
Dimension: 176 x 232 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785514128