Traditional Chinese Silk Fans – “Autumn Reverie” & “Portrait of Longing”

A stunning pair of round silk fans inspired by classical Chinese aesthetics, these pieces evoke the elegance and poetic spirit of ancient China. Each fan features vibrant hand-style artwork and printed calligraphy, celebrating themes of nature, music, and romantic longing.

• Fan 1 – “Autumn Reverie”
  Depicts a graceful woman in traditional Hanfu playing a stringed instrument, surrounded by blooming pink flowers and lush foliage. The fan includes poetic lines attributed to Li Bai, one of China’s most revered Tang Dynasty poets, referencing the Xiang River in autumn and the ephemeral beauty of the moment.
  Calligraphy excerpt: “今夕何夕兮 搴舟中流” – “What night is this tonight? Plucking the boat midstream.”
• Fan 2 – “Portrait of Longing” (相思图)
  Features two women in flowing robes standing amidst misty greenery, symbolizing emotional yearning and timeless beauty. The title suggests a romantic or nostalgic theme, common in Qing Dynasty-inspired art.

Both fans are crafted with silk surfaces, black lacquered handles, and finished one with a red tassel—a traditional symbol of good fortune. While modern in production, they pay homage to centuries of Chinese artistry and poetic tradition.

Style: Qing Dynasty-inspired
Estimated Age: Late 20th to early 21st century
Medium: Printed silk with decorative tassels
Cultural Significance: Tribute to classical poetry and feminine elegance