Kawahori paper fan - The Seven Lucky Gods

【This item will ship on the 15th of December】

Details & Origin

The first Kawahori-sen (or ‘bat fans’) appeared in the early Heian era (794-1185) and were originally composed of 5 spines, like this one. Records tell us they have been used for change between men and women in court, instead of letters.

The front side is coatead with gold leaves and hand-painted, the backside is sprinkled with gold flakes. The scene depicts The Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin in Japanese), a group of deities from India, China and Japan. Though this famous scene appeared in Japanese Arts in the 17th Century, each god existed independently before, in their respective countries. It’s an excellent example of how Buddhist, Shinto and Hindu beliefs have lived together in Japan and influenced each other.

Composition

• hand-painted Japanese washi paper

• entirely covered with gold leaves on one side

• natural bamboo structure

Condition

Used. Very good condition.

Size

• Folded: 37 x 7 cm

• Open: 37 x 50 cm