The blueprint for the modern day hand fan dates back to the reign of King Tut.  Long handled fans were used in religious ceremonies, conveyed wealth and influence, and served the practical purpose of cooling.  Over the millennium this evolved into smaller hand fans which again served multiple purposes (e.g., advertising and communication, self-cooling, making a fashion or political statement).  You can find several types of hand fans from black owned brands.  See the descriptions and product links below.

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Folding fans in Ankara/African prints unfold into a round fan and generally have leather handles.  When folded, these fans can be stored and carried in a purse.  The attachment on the handle keeps the fan in place when folded or unfolded.


    Other hand fans have many folds and open into a half circle.  The rib (lower part of the fan) is typically made of wood or plastic, while the upper part is made up of various textiles.

    HAND FAN PIC IMG_0031 (2)

    Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons via the Metropolitan Museum of Art

    • Afrikrea offers a selection of hand fans in African prints from various vendors, and several come with cases.

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    HAND WOVEN FANS are typically made with elephant grass or wicker, and have handles wrapped with leather.  Generally they are shaped like a leaf, with some being more circular.

    • Afrohemien (advertisement) offers a selection of woven and wicker fans.

      PAPER based (church) fans are also available.

      In reviewing these products, I hope you find a hand fan or two that works for you.

      Happy Shopping!

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      References

      1. The Fan Circle International.  “Fans of Tutankhamun’s Tomb.”  https://www.fancircleinternational.org/history/fans-of-tutankhamuns-tomb/
      2. Tippecanoe County Historical Association via Purdue University.   https://web.ics.purdue.edu/~salvo/@SEA/exhibit/index.asp

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