History of Fan (Sensu)
The sensu (fan) origin goes back to the Heian period (794~1185). A folding fan, was made first in Japan, and then exported to China, finally to Europe via India. It was highly fashionable during the reign of Louis XIV (1638-1715) to use a fan. The sensu was later imported back to Japan, and the silk fan was born.
Varieties of Sensu
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.
Sensu for summer
Generally, sensu for men are about 23cm in length when folded, for ladies, 20cm. There are many varieties in the Summer sensu range, those which are in use daily to keep oneself cool and those for more formal occasions and events. The main spine is made in a plectrum shape, silk is used instead of washi (Japanese traditional paper) but some sensu are made from both silk and washi paper.
Sensu and its unspoken language
To place a sensu down in front of you closed, shows humility in intention. This was used as a greeting when two people meet.
When a marriage was fixed, both families exchanged sensu before the betrothal gifts were exchanged. Generally, a white sensu was given to the groom, a gold or silver sensu was given to the bride, but its original meaning was to give each other the sensu they used everyday, into which they had put their heart and body. This custom began in the Heian period. Also, the sensu a bride has at a wedding was originally made from real gold and silver paper which is meant to pray for happiness and to protect her from bad luck.
Another use is on the noh stage. By placing the fan in front of the koken (stage attendants) or the jiutai (chorus) they are seen on stage but have no part in the story; they are protected by the sensu so the actors do not react to their presence.