Woman's Wedding Fan
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Ella Clarinda Pitkin
American, 1860 - 1949
MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1888
MediumBamboo sticks and a paper leaf, with cotton cording and a tassel
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width when opened): 13 1/2 x 24 1/8in. (34.3 x 61.3cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Edward C. Allen II
DescriptionPaper fan with fifteen bamboo sticks. The heavy paper leaf is a darkened ivory color, decorated with painted blossoms and leaves of orange and white, accented by a deeper orange and black. The paper is cut out at the top in decorative patterns to highlight the drawings. The cut-out areas have been filled in with a very sheer fabric (possibly gauze), glued to the back of the paper. Each of the end sticks (the "guards") are split and splayed to become three separate round pieces laced with decorative beige-colored cording. The sticks are held together at the base by a brass pin from which a metal loop extends. Tied to the metal loop is a loop of cording ending in a tassel, 3 1/8 inches long, also made from cording.
Object number2003.18.3
NotesHistorical Note: Ella Clarinda Pitkin (1860-1949) married Edward Channing Allen (1853-1933) on Wednesday, 12 September 1888 in South Windsor, Connecticut. Ella Pitkin was a seamstress, and she made her own wedding dress. The Allen's ran a general store in Hazardville, Connecticut.Subject Terms
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