Antique Folding Fan, Collector Cotton and Brass Hand Fan, Signed L. Casamayor, Double Sided Painting with Swans, circa 1910

Early 20th-century Spanish folding fan, a high-quality artisanal piece featuring a finely carved natural structure and a hand-painted cotton leaf. The work is signed by the renowned artist L. Casamayor on the obverse, adding exceptional collector value.

History of the object: In the early 20th century, the fan-making industry in Spain reached a peak of artistic refinement. Prominent artists, such as L. Casamayor, specialized in decorating fan leaves, adapting 'fête galante' style scenes to the sophisticated tastes of the era. This piece stands out for its double-sided decoration—a complex technical feature that doubles its artistic value—showing a detailed social scene on the front and an elegant naturalistic composition of swans on the back.

Details and condition:
- Period: Circa 1910 (Belle Époque).
- Technique: Hand-painted on cotton; openwork structure with delicate gold leaf accents.
- Size: Closed length 24.5 cm (9.6 inches); open span 45 cm (17.7 inches).
- Material: High-quality cotton, sculpted natural organic material, brass loop.
- Condition: Excellent state of preservation. The cotton leaf is complete, with no tears or restorations. The carved structure is intact and fully functional, showing only minor natural age-related tension marks. The opening mechanism works smoothly.

Value: This specimen represents an exceptional testament to historic fashion and European decorative arts. Its excellent condition, the artist's signature, and the rare double-sided painting make it an investment-grade piece for private and institutional collectors.