Fan 1875 - 1885

This fan was crafted by Aman Cyb, who lived from 1838 to 1910. The fan as a cultural object provides a fascinating window into the social mores of its time. Consider its function: a tool for cooling, yes, but also for flirtation, a subtle language of gesture in the highly mannered courts and salons of Europe. The imagery decorating the fan is also revealing. We see scenes of aristocratic leisure, hinting at the patron's social standing and aspirations. To truly understand this fan, we might delve into fashion history, etiquette manuals, and even conduct a study of sumptuary laws. By studying these various sources, we can start to unravel the complex web of meaning woven into this seemingly simple object. The fan’s meaning is contingent on its historical context.