Shopping In Beijing: Discover High-Quality Chinese Fans
Invention Development Advice - Business Identity and Artwork
China has a long history of making fans. Archaeological evidence shows that the Chinese tradition of making fans goes back to as early as the Zhou dynasty, over 3,000 years ago. Even back then, ancient artisans had already reached a very high level of skill. Visit the fantastic local shops in Beijing to buy some authentic, exquisite Chinese fans.
by AndyLao


China has a long history of making fans. Archaeological evidence shows that the Chinese tradition of making fans goes back to as early as the Zhou dynasty, over 3,000 years ago. Even back then, ancient artisans had already reached a very high level of skill. Visit the fantastic local shops in Beijing to buy some authentic, exquisite Chinese fans.

The development of fans made of silk, feathers, paper, wood, fabric, bones, and ivory came throughout Chinese history. Initially used by the upper class to symbolize their power, fans gradually became a popular item used by people from all segments of society. In the Ming dynasty, Chinese fans were introduced to Europe and became an instant hit.

Usually decorated with traditional paintings or calligraphy on both sides, the artistic value of a fan is prized far more than its practical function. A Chinese fan has a very high value if it is made of a precious material, has an beautiful shape, and is decorated with a piece of work done by a famous artist.

Most Chinese fans are divided into two main types: round fans and folding fans. Round fans were invented earlier than folding fans and simply consist of a round, flat surface mounted on a wooden handle. Folding fans were introduced from Japan and became popular in the Ming dynasty. Made of thin pieces that expand and collapse on a pivot, they can be folded when not in use.

The "Four Major Fans" of China are famous for their unique styles. They are: sandalwood fans produced in Jiangsu province, pyrography fans that originated in Guangdong province, bamboo fans made in Sichuan province, and silk fans from Zhejiang province.

Sandalwood fans made in Jiangsu province are known for their deep, mind-refreshing fragrance that can last a long time. After being stored for 10 years, they can still give off a pleasant smell. People like to put one such fan together with their clothes to keep them from being damaged by insects. The beautiful pictures carved on the wood are also very attractive.

Pyrography fans were invented in Guangdong province during the late Qing dynasty. Their designs are made by literally burning the surface of the fan with a special iron. Like other pyrography work, these fans are famous for their unique images that never fade. This special property makes them popular with fan collectors. Most of them have handles that are made of glass.

Bamboo fans are prized for their delicate body, thin surface, and exquisite design. Most of them are created in the shape of a peach and have handles made of ivory or ox bone. They are so incredibly exquisite, some regard them as a national treasure of China.

Silk fans are an old invention of China. It is believed most fans produced in the earlier periods of this country were made of silk. The fans they make are famous for their light body, elegant design, and smooth surface.

Fans have played an important role in Chinese culture for centuries. Round fans in particular are a classic Chinese symbol of feminine beauty and grace, because ancient women often used such fans to cover their face when meeting strangers. Nowadays, even though Chinese no longer use different types of fans to show their class rank, they still like to do paintings and write calligraphy on their fans to show their artisitc skills. For thousands of years, this great tradition has remained unchanged.

In Beijing, most of the high-quality Chinese fans are only offered in small, specialized shops. It's best to find a personal shopper or shopping assistant to help you find these shops. Many mass-produced, low-quality fans are available, but they are known to fall apart or be made of less-than desirable materials.

More information:

A. Lao has written about Chinese arts and crafts for years. He assists a Personal Shopper in Beijing who brings customers to special Chinese stores. From time to time, he plans personal shopping trips.

< Prev   Next >