Parasol fan

Accessoires

Chinese invention
At the end of the nineteenth century, many patents were applied for in the fan industry for special models of fans and for special manufacturing techniques. This type of fan was also known as 'Chinese fan' because it was a Chinese invention. From 1868 parasol fans were copied and patented in Europe. They were made from luxurious materials such as silk, lace and feathers. When unfolding the fan, one of the outer legs is rotated 180 degrees and held together via a click system. This creates the characteristic cockade shape. Parasol fans are therefore also called cockade fans. Occasionally they were presented to ladies at dinner, when the gentlemen were given cigars in similar tubes.

Image: © Collection Museum Rotterdam, Paris, 1920-1930
See more parasol fans in the museum collection.

 

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