Portret van een Chinese reus en kleine Chinese man 1853 - 1865

This image, by Thiersault, presents a ‘Portrait of a Chinese giant and a small Chinese man.’ The figures hold delicately adorned fans, acting as badges of social standing and symbolic gestures of modesty. The fan as a symbol is far from static. Recall its appearance across cultures: from ancient Egypt, where fans were wielded by royalty, to its role in European courts, signifying elegance and privilege. Consider how the fan has morphed through time. What was once a sacred object, embodying power, now performs on a stage of coquetry, flirting, and concealing. This photograph captures more than just likeness; it evokes a primal fascination with the human form, mirroring our anxieties about stature and status. The recurring motif of the fan is a testament to culture's subconscious play, forever transforming symbols across eras.