Overview
A charming example of a 'cockade' or circular folding fan, designed to collapse into a slim metal handle for portability.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming example of a 'cockade' or circular folding fan, designed to collapse into a slim metal handle for portability.
Story
Before the ubiquity of air conditioning, a lady’s handbag was never complete without a 'foldaway' to combat the heat of a crowded theater or a summer commute.
Maker / Origin
While no specific manufacturer is listed, these were predominantly produced in Japan during the post-WWII era to satisfy a Western craze for 'Orientalist' aesthetics.
Condition & Value
The fan itself appears to be in excellent functional condition with vibrant colors. The box shows some minor edge wear and light crushing consistent with age, but the graphics remain clear and legible. The presence of the box adds roughly 50% to the value compared to a loose fan.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375