A Good Mid-18th Century Ivory Fan, the monture of white...

Lot Description:

A Good Mid-18th Century Ivory Fan, the monture of white mother-of-pearl, silvered and gilded. The upper guard features a large classical urn. The gorge sticks, shaped with narrow ovals on four sticks, the ovals contained within straight sticks on others, are also decorated in classical fashion. The theme of ovals continues to the leaf, the recto having four ovals, equally spread, the reserves featuring chickens to the left and a dog chasing a hare to the right. The outer painted ovals depict harbour scenes, with stone towers, sailing boats and workers about their business, related seemingly to fishing. The central ovals feature gentle pastoral scenes, with a suitor offering a flower to a maiden, and a lady seated, having gathered flowers. The verso is plain. Guard length approx. 10 and 5/8 inches or 27cm. Together with A Second Ivory Fan, the colourful double leaf depicting a maiden and her suitor, the latter in uniform with breastplate and plumed helmet, paying homage before an altar of the Goddess of hunting, Diana, her hunting dog to her side, Cupid in flight, his quiver and arrows on the ground beneath him. The monture is carved and pierced, with a central cartouche. The verso features simple floral sprays painted in gold. Guard length approx. 10 inches or 25.5cm (2)

Condition Report:
. The first fan has been framed. probably due to repair seen on the lower guard, and glue noted on the other side. The leaf is actually very clean and sound. Some rubbing to the folds. Slight crumpling to the top edge of the leaf. Very slightly splayed when re-folded. The frame is available within the hammer price, should the purchaser wish to take it. The second fan is quite badly damaged, with full splits to some folds, a broken guards and repairs to a broken gorge.