Inside Storm in a Teacup

Fans

During the 16th century fans were very much a luxury item available only to the wealthier classes. However, by the latter part of the 17th century fans were becoming more widely produced and by the 18th century fans had become a must in polite society for men and women alike.

From the sixteenth century onwards the fan was used in fashionable society as a secret means of communication in matters of the heart. Both men and women carried fans and understood the different messages conveyed, the meanings of which were published in etiquette books and magazines of the time.

PLEASE NOTE Whilst we try to keep a permanent stock of all our fans, some less popular colours may need to be placed on special order, resulting in a delay of up to 10 days before the order is processed. Please therefore allow up to 2 weeks for your fan to arrive, or you require it urgently, please telephone to confirm delivery dates. Thank you.