Fan 1935 - 1942

Editor: Here we have Jean Peszel's "Fan," created sometime between 1935 and 1942, using ink. There's something fragile and a little sad about it. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Beyond its immediate delicacy, I see a quiet rebellion. During that period, even the act of creating such an intricate and traditionally feminine object could be read as a subversive assertion of identity. How do you think societal expectations played a role in Peszel's choice of subject matter and medium? Editor: So, even a fan could be a form of protest? Curator: Absolutely. The fan itself, historically associated with female coquetry and demure communication, takes on a new layer of meaning when created during times of social upheaval. And the medium—ink—suggests permanence, a lasting statement rather than fleeting fancy. The meticulous detail and precision of the drawing are noteworthy too. Does that make you consider the idea of resistance, or something else? Editor: That makes sense. The fine detail and careful rendering give it more weight than just a simple depiction. The lace and flowers suddenly don’t seem so delicate. It feels like there’s an inner strength to it. Curator: Precisely. The flowers and lace could be read as symbolic armour. This adds layers of intersectionality. Peszel seems to subtly dismantle established societal constraints by embracing a historically “feminine” object. Considering Peszel’s "Fan" through this lens, what does this reveal to you about the artist's world and how she engaged with it? Editor: It reframes the everyday object as a quiet act of defiance and strength. It shows me that even the smallest actions can carry powerful messages. Curator: And that’s precisely how art can ignite transformative dialogues.