Fan 1775 - 1800

This delicate fan, by Benjamin West, presents an intriguing interplay between form and representation. Rendered in monochrome, the composition strikes a balance between decorative art and complex figural arrangement. The fan’s arc is cleverly divided. Intricate, lace-like patterns adorn the lower portion, while above, a scene unfolds with figures and cherubic forms swirling amidst clouds. The use of a monochromatic palette emphasizes tonal values and allows West to play with light and shadow, creating depth and dimension on the fan’s curved surface. Consider how the fan’s shape informs our reading of the artwork. The curved form inherently suggests movement, which West amplifies through the dynamic positioning of his figures. The fan operates not merely as a functional object but as a canvas that destabilizes traditional artistic boundaries. It engages with ideas of semiotics, where the object itself conveys status and taste, while the image invites narrative interpretation.