Japanese Sensu Fans
History of Fan (Sensu)
The origin of the Sensu dates back to the Heian period (794~1185). First in Japan,these folding fans were then exported to China and finally to Europe via India. The usage of a fan was considered highly fashionable during the reign of French monarch Louis XIV (1638-1715). The sensu later found its way back to Japan, leading to the birth of the silk fan.
Varieties of Sensu
A variety of fans exist for various occasions; ceremonies, performance, warfare and also simply as decoration.
There are many kinds of Fan’s for different occasions: ceremonies, entertainment, also for decorating. At Hizen-ya only the Natsu Sensu(Summer Fan) are available.
Natsu Sensu (Summer Fan)
Generally speaking, sensu for men are around 23cm long when folded, for woman they are usually about 20cm. The summer sensu itself has a number of different styles. Some are for daily use for keeping yourself cool in the hot and humid Japanese summer, as well as those intended for use at more formal events. The spine of the fan is built in a plectrum shape, and silk is used more often than washi (Japanese paper) though its not uncommon to see sensu made of both silk and washi paper.
Interesting Cultural Uses of The Sensu
When meeting someone, it shows your sense of humility to hold a closed sensu in front of yourself pointing downwards.
When two people agreed to be married, both of their families would exchange sensu before any betrothal gifts where passed on. Usually a white sensu for the groom and a silver or gold for the wife, the traditional purpose was to give each other a sensu they used everyday, into which their heart and soul had been put. This custom began in the Heian period. Back in the Heian period where the tradition originated, the sensu used by the bride was made from real silver or gold leaf paper, said to protect her from bad luck and to bring happiness.
Sensu fans also found their way on stage, in noh plays. They are most commonly used by placing them in front of the koken (stage hands) and/or the jiutai (chorus) they can be seen on stage but are not included in the story. The fans “protect” them so that the actors do not react to their presence on stage.
