Artwork
Eventail pliant
Eventail pliant is an unspecified work on paper by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris. The object is a portable hand fan composed of a light brown base that folds into a compact shape.
About this work
Overview
The object is a portable hand fan composed of a light brown base that folds into a compact shape. Its surface is divided into multiple panels, each adorned with diminutive pink blossoms and green foliage. The fan is supported by a slender handle crafted from pale wood, featuring modest black linear motifs reminiscent of branches.
Subject & Meaning
The decorative motif centers on stylized floral elements, with pink flowers and accompanying leaves rendered in a delicate, miniature scale. Such botanical imagery was commonly employed in decorative arts to evoke notions of elegance and natural beauty, aligning the fan with aesthetic preferences of its era.
Technique & Style
The fan’s covering appears to be a fine, slightly lustrous fabric, likely silk or taffeta, allowing the painted design to stand out with subtle sheen. The paintwork is executed with precision, delivering intricate details on each petal and leaf, indicative of careful brushwork on a flexible substrate.
History & Provenance
Hand fans of this construction were prevalent in the 19th century, serving both functional and ornamental purposes. The combination of a light wooden handle and painted silk aligns with production methods of that period, though specific maker or origin details are not provided.
Context
During the 1800s, handheld fans were integral to social etiquette, used for cooling, signaling, and as accessories that complemented attire. The floral decoration reflects contemporary tastes for nature-inspired motifs, often seen in textiles and personal accessories of the time.
Artist & collection
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
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