Fan leaf
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
ca. 1750 - ca. 1775
This object is an unmounted fan leaf decorated with a Chinoiserie design, executed as an etching on paper with printing ink. Produced by an unknown maker, it dates from approximately 1750 to 1775 and was probably made in England. The sheet is cut into an arc shape typical for a folding fan leaf, measuring 27.3 cm in height and 51.2 cm in width.
The linear etched composition depicts a landscape setting with rocks, blossoming branches, and large peony flowers. Within this setting, two Chinese figures appear: one carrying a staff and another holding or standing alongside a basket holding grapes and what may be bread. To the right of the figures stands an architectural structure featuring pillars, decorative lattice work, and internal tiling beneath an overhanging tree.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Historical context
When completed, fans of this type were typically intended for the cheaper end of the market and would likely have been sold on the street. The object has recorded provenance from the Martin Willcocks Collection.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- Etching
- Dimensions
- Height (sheet): 27.3 cm; Width (sheet): 51.2 cm
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Unknown
- Place recorded
- England
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Victoria and Albert Museum collection record for this single object; how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Museum object name
- Fan leaf
- Museum object number
- E.1057-1992
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.