Antique Japanese Fans

A folding fan from Japan is called a “sensu” or “o-gi” while a non-folding fan is called an “uchiwa.” Both styles of hand fans were used as a material to write and communicate through as well as showcase social status. Browse a selection of authentic Japanese fans on 1stDibs.

There are three types of Japanese fans. The uchiwa is a fixed fan that is used practically to create a breeze and stay cool. The sensu or ogi fan is a folding fan that is a fashion accessory as well as cooling the user. The gunsen fan is a war fan that was used during war times for signaling and also occasionally as a weapon. Shop an array of authentic Japanese fans on 1stDibs.

To identify an antique fan, search all over for a maker's mark. Then, consult an authoritative online reference to match the mark to the manufacturer's name. A licensed appraiser can also assist with identification. You'll find a collection of expertly vetted antique fans on 1stDibs.

To tell if your Japanese pottery is antique, look for markings, which usually appear on the bottoms of pieces. If you see the word "Nippon," your piece was likely produced between 1891 and 1921, making it an antique. Pieces marked with the words "made in occupied Japan" originated between 1945 and 1952 and are vintage, based on their age. A "made in Japan" marking may indicate a vintage or contemporary piece. If you don't see any of these markings, consult trusted online resources to get a rough idea of when your pottery was produced. Any piece that dates back 100 years or more is antique. Should you encounter difficulty with the dating process, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can assist you. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Japanese pottery.