A Scarce, Small and Dainty Very Early 19th Century Fan,...

Lot Description:

A Scarce, Small and Dainty Very Early 19th Century Fan, the ivory monture slender and with diminutive gorge, carved centrally with Chinese figures, the reserves with foliage. The double vellum leaf is most likely unique, as all over, and at all angles, hand written verse or quotations fill all available space. Under magnification it is noted that most language is English, but some French spotted. Two texts deciphered: "On the creditors of a Western Baronet being appointed to meet at the Devil Tavern. Tradesman must present their skills with bows most civil, Sir Charles, for payment, sends them to the Devil; Herein well preserving his state and rank, for where his creditor's gone, must be his bank!" and " A painter, having a picture of the Lord Mayor and Aldermen to refreshen, hesitated whether to use copal (?) or mastic varnish "neither one nor t'other", said Peter Pinda "if you wish to bring the figures out, varnish it with turtle soup!". Diamante to the rivet ends. Guard length 7.75 inches or 20cm.

Condition Report:
. Note 2 plain ivory sticks to the gorge which are the first in at either side and may or may not be original. The leaf is marginally crumpled. To one side, some small brown foxing, and three pinholes are noted near the centre, two more to one side and one to the other. Some of the upper folds are slightly split and some previous repair possible. Generally, slightly grubby but quite an amazing survivor.