Sunday, December 5, 2010

The symbolism of the fan











I have recently done some beautiful asian fan tattoos. I thought after discussing the meaning with one of my clients that I wouls post a brief description of the fan in asian culture as well as the link where I found it. This picture is one of my favorites, I just completed another this weekend that I will post asap!


    Significance

  1. The Chinese calligraphy character for the word "fan" has the same sound as the character for "kindness" or "good." Thus, fans are viewed as good luck charms and expressions of generosity.

    2. Types

  2. Flat Chinese fans are round and made of silk stretched over a frame. Folded fans are made of silk, paper, feathers or leaves. The handles can be bamboo, sandalwood, bone, tortoise shell or ivory.

    3. Symbolism

  3. The round fans symbolize union or reunion and are often inscribed with romantic poems, Chinese characters or floral designs representing wealth and longevity. The folding fans have a history of symbolizing scholarship.

    4. Function

  4. In the past, Chinese fans were used to signify a high social status. Today they are used to display grace in dances and personality traits of characters in theatrical plays or storytelling. In connection with the annual Dragon Boat Festival, Chinese fans have also been used as memorials of people who have died.

    5. Fun Fact

  5. Traditionally, men and women use different folding fans, based on the number of "ribs" between folds. Women's fans must have at least 30 ribs, but men's fans can have nine, 16, 20 or 24.




Read more: What Is the Meaning of the Chinese Fans? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/facts_5647816_meaning-chinese-fans_.html#ixzz17HuSQ6cb





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