Folding Fan Hand Fan Abanico Spanish Carved Black Wood Fabric Mourning Flamenco Accessory Spain 20th Century

An authentic Spanish folding hand fan dating to the first half of the 20th century, featuring intricately pierced and carved black wood sticks and a black semi-translucent textile leaf. This piece exhibits the classic design principles of traditional Iberian craftsmanship, heavily influenced by late Victorian and Edwardian mourning aesthetics.

Historically, black folding fans constructed from dark-stained or ebonized wood with matching dark textile leaves served precise social and functional etiquette during periods of formal mourning in Western Europe, particularly within high-society Spanish traditions. They also served as classic accessories for traditional performances such as flamenco.

Features and details:

* Period: 20th Century (circa 1900-1940)
* Technique / Style: Openwork fretwork carving, textile mounting
* Size: Closed length: 24 cm (9.4 inches); maximum open width: approximately 44 cm (17.3 inches); depth: 3 cm (1.2 inches)
* Material: Carved wood, dyed black textile, brass loop
* Condition: Fair historical state. Visible fraying and minor losses along the upper edges of the textile leaf are consistent with age. The black finish on the wood show natural rubbing and light surface wear, revealing the underlying grain. The brass suspension ring remains secure and functional.

This hand fan stands as a notable historical document of regional textile and fashion history, representing substantial interest for specialized curators, theatrical costume designers, and collectors of European mourning accessories.