Late 19th century decorative fan mounted within a semicircular gilt wood frame and pedestal stand, conceived as a freestanding tabletop ornament. The carved and gilt frame follows the arc of the fan and features a beaded inner molding and molded outer border, supported by a turned pedestal stem rising from a circular base decorated with stylized foliate ornament. The presentation transforms the fan into a sculptural display piece suitable for a mantel, console, or sideboard.
The fan leaf is decorated with a finely painted polychrome pastoral scene depicting four figures in romanticized 18th-century costume gathered around a harpist in a garden setting. A standing woman plays the harp at center while a seated gentleman appears to hold sheet music beside her. To the left a woman in a flowing pink gown gestures toward the musician, while to the right a gentleman approaches holding his hat. The composition is further enhanced with gilt highlights and delicate garlands of stylized floral ornament arranged along the upper portion of the fan.
The reverse reveals the structure of the fan and shows age-related toning and wear. The fan is secured within the frame by small metal supports along the lower edge.
Dimensions
Height: 14.5 inches – 37cm
Width: 17.5 inches – 44cm
Depth: 5 inches – 13cm
