A sweet 18.5 cm 'flirt' of an antique French hand fan, embroidered silk and mesh, adorned in sequins and designed with perforations through which one might more boldly watch, assess, or flirt with the gentlemen. I've read this type of fan is sometimes referred to as "à La Madame Sans Gène", after a popular 18th century French opera, theme of which is a low-born woman 'flirts' her way into the Nobility. A little beauty, it seems to color-shift depending upon what time of day or lighting I've used, so lots of photos. To my eye, it's basically a cream-colored silk, beset with lots of colorful and reflective sequins. The monture is in bone.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, I will point out slight light stains of age which my digital camera shows with more emphasis than the fan does. Surprisingly, the silk isn't deteriorated and I find no holes. It's a pretty display, interesting history. It appears to have no breaks, though in very close inspection, I think there is an old (and solid) restoration on the guard on the rear of the fan. Supports itself well with its monture. In inches: 7.48" long when closed and opens to 13.78" widest (as pictured).
