Large folding fan

A large-sized fan, measuring 75.5 cm in height, originating from Japan, where fans of the mita ōgi 巨扇 (giant fan) type are said to have been used in ceremonies, processions or theatre in the past. The fan is foldable, which is one of the three basic and most common fan shapes, along with the non-foldable or oval fan and the brisé fan (consisting of connected wooden sticks). Attached to the brown lacquered sticks is paper painted on both sides with a flower and bird motif, common in Japanese art. With its rich symbolism, a motif from the world of nature – of birds and flowers or other plants, grasses, trees, animals, fish or insects – conveys a meaning for the world of man. In mythology, birds often represent longevity and immortality or are associated with deities, while flowers with their blossoms, leaves and branches represent the changing of the seasons or the beauty and fragility of women. On one side of the fan are painted a cherry tree with white blossoms already in bloom and two birds in flight, which are probably cuckoos. The cuckoo is a symbol of summer, unrequited love, impermanence and sadness, while the blossoming cherry represents transience. Under the tree are flowers with white blossoms. On the other side, two quails are drawn on a brown background, hiding among tall grass and a pink flowering bindweed. The quail, as a strong fighting bird, is a symbol of courage and victory in battle, while the bindweed represents morning beauty and at the same time the autumn season, as well as transience, mortality or unrequited love.

The frame is made of wood, with bars painted dark brown. On the outer bar are painted vines and grapes and a bird in gold. This style is called taka maki-e 高蒔絵, which means that the gilding is not smooth, but has a slightly higher relief. The fan is well preserved, missing only the lower part of the blade in the middle. Such large fans were used mainly in the 19th century and are very rare today, even in museums, because of their size and ceremonial use. This is the only large Japanese fan of this type in our country. (NVG)