The fan has always been important to Japan. They are used by warriors, actors, and children. Fans are given as presents ,they are sometimes used in religious ceremonines. The top of the handle of the fan symbolizes the beginning of life. The ribs stand for the roads of life going out in all directions to good fortune.
Various fan designs that are found today in the world originated in ancient Japan. It was not until modern times that they found their way to Europe through the Chinese continent.
In Japan, fans were called "sueshiro", or wide-bottom, and have long ben a symbol of prosperity. Even today, fans are indispensable small items and festivals as well as in traditional Japanese dancing.
Fans are made from materials produced in Japan: bamboo , paper and silk. The size and shape of fans are varied, and this variety adds to the lives of the Japanese regardless of the season.
This is a Japanese fan.