Inez Roe, from the Actresses series (N245) issued by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes 1890

This photographic print of Inez Roe comes from a series of actresses, created by Kinney Brothers to promote Sweet Caporal Cigarettes. Note the fan in her hand, a symbol that extends back through centuries, not merely as a tool for cooling, but as an emblem of elegance. One can trace its evolution from the liturgical fans of the early Christian church, used to keep insects away from the Eucharist, to its secular adaptation as a fashion accessory, wielded with subtle artistry by women of high society. It is a tool for discreet communication, capable of conveying a spectrum of emotions—flirtation, secrecy, or even rejection. Think of the fluttering fans in Goya's portraits, each movement laden with unspoken meaning. In the collective memory, such gestures resonate deeply, tapping into a reservoir of shared cultural understanding. The fan is not just an object; it’s a carrier of history, a silent actor in the theater of human interaction. These objects engage us on a subconscious level, reminding us that the past is always present. This symbol has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.