A true museum worthy fan, this! I had this as a French mid-1700s fan, and there's some question if it might be even earlier and either English or Dutch in origin. No signature (which would be normal), and very likely c.1740, it survives nearly 300 years in superb condition for age and type. The elegant carved sticks and guards are each figural and have suffered no loss nor damage. The impossibly slender ribs are intact and holding the fan beautifully for display. The hand painted paper leaf, a quaint scene of people out together fishing a stream, remains in fine condition without tears at the folds one might expect. Same with the hand painted paper backing, a single figure. Lots of photos to review with this one - exceptional in all ways. Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, as noted in description above. No breaks in that elegantly carved figural monture. No tears nor holes in the hand painted paper leaf front and back (barely a tiny nick of wear at the folds, really - look it over. No warping, elegant shaped guard and sticks - a masterpiece. Museum worthy, and with significant age. A collector's dream find! I've taken photos in a variety of lighting and backgrounds, trying to show it well in all aspects.
