Painted Fans of the Chinese Tradition

Fan painting (Shanmian) is a distinctive form of traditional Chinese art, closely associated with the literati culture of ancient China. Originating as early as the Han Dynasty and flourishing during the Ming and Qing periods, it transforms the surface of folding fans or round silk fans into a refined artistic medium. Integrating poetry, calligraphy, and painting, fan artworks often depict landscapes, flowers, birds, or figures, conveying both aesthetic beauty and scholarly sentiment. The unique format of the fan surface—whether round or semi-circular—encourages innovative composition and balance. As both a functional object and an artistic expression, fan painting reflects elegance, cultural taste, and the harmony between daily life and art in Chinese tradition.

This exhibition presents a collection of traditional Chinese painted fans

This exhibition explores artistic language, symbolism, and historical context through a contemporary museum lens. Visitors are invited to move between sacred narratives, courtly aesthetics, and material craftsmanship.