Needlwork fan with black handle and frame

fan

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES - ACCESSORY
China
19th century
paper; wood; thread
overall: 17 1/4 x 10 1/4 x 1/4 in.

Circle shaped, paper needlework fan in a black painted wood frame with handle.Fan is a round, cream colored paper panel between two pieces of loosely woven material with an embroidered scene. There are two figures in robes, one in front of the other, facing a small table holding a vase, bowls, and possibly incense burning (blue lines lead from the vessel to cloud-like forms in the sky). Architectural element in foreground, and along right side. Floral designs surround. The paper panel is framed by a thin, black painted wood border with handle, which is etched all around with gold characters. The scene is completely visible in reverse on the back of the fan. Short cord with braided knot is attached to the handle.

2003.90.13