Painted Silk Fan with Feathers, England, ca. 1890

This large antique hand fan, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century, is a dramatic and luxurious example of historic fashion accessories, combining rich materials with bold visual impact. The sticks are made of ebony or ebonized wood, offering a sleek, dark contrast to the vibrant leaf and enhancing the fan’s elegant silhouette.

The fan leaf is crafted from ruby red silk, hand-painted with delicate flowers and ferns, and trimmed along the upper edge with soft feathers—a detail that adds volume and theatrical flair. Measuring approx. 36 cm in guard length, 44 cm in total length, and an impressive 80 cm in width when opened, this fan commands attention while retaining its refined charm.

In very good condition, it shows only subtle signs of age and use, with the feathers slightly dusty and gently ruffled, consistent with careful preservation over time.

This rare ruby red feather fan is ideal for collectors of antique fans, Victorian or Edwardian fashion accessories, or museum-quality decorative arts, offering a vivid glimpse into the luxury and craftsmanship of turn-of-the-century European design.