The Language of the Fan

Sixteenth century English writer, Joseph Addison, stated: “Men have the sword, women have the fan and the fan is probably as effective a weapon!”- Life in Italy, Handheld Fans

The language of the fan is a fascinating aspect of social history, particularly during the Regency period, a time known for its strict social codes and elaborate etiquette. In this era, the fan was not just an accessory for cooling oneself but also a nuanced tool of communication, often used by women to convey messages without words.

The fan’s silent vocabulary was extensive and could express a wide range of sentiments, from interest and affection to disdain and rejection. Here are some of the interpretations from the Regency period as indicated in the image provided:

• Carrying in the right hand in front of the face: “Follow me.”
• Carrying in the left hand in front of the face: “Desirous of acquaintance.”
• Placing it on the left ear: “I wish to get rid of you.”
• Drawing across the forehead: “You have changed.”
• Twirling in the left hand: “We are watched.”
• Carrying in the right hand: “You are too willing.”
• Drawing through the hand: “I hate you.”
• Twirling in the right hand: “I love another.”
• Drawing across the cheek: “I love you.”
• Presented shut: “Do you love me?”
• Drawing across the eyes: “I am sorry.”
• Touching tip with finger: “I wish to speak to you.”
• Letting it rest on the right cheek: “Yes.”
• Letting it rest on the left cheek: “No.”
• Open and shut: “You are cruel.”
• Dropping it: “We will be friends.”
• Fanning slowly: “I am married.”
• Fanning quickly: “I am engaged.”
• With handle to lips: “Kiss me.”
• Open wide: “Wait for me.”
• Carrying in left hand, open: “Come and talk to me.”
• Placed behind head: “Don’t forget me.”
• With little finger extended: “Good-bye.”

These signals offered a way for women, who were often restricted in their ability to initiate direct verbal communication with men, to express themselves in a socially acceptable manner. The subtleties of fan language required a keen eye and a good understanding of the code to interpret the messages accurately.

Social gatherings, such as balls and soirées, provided the perfect backdrop for these silent conversations. A lady could signal her interest in a gentleman or politely dismiss one without causing a scene or drawing attention to the interaction.

However, the language of the fan was not universally standardized and could vary by region and even by individual interpretation. Furthermore, the fan’s messages were not always taken seriously; sometimes, they were part of flirtatious games or light-hearted banter.

Despite its historical charm, the language of the fan fell out of use as social norms evolved and women gained more freedom to speak openly. Yet, this elegant form of communication remains a captivating glimpse into the social dynamics of the Regency period, reflecting the creativity and ingenuity women employed to navigate the strictures of their time.

Fans have been used for centuries across various cultures, with their popularity waxing and waning over time. However, if we focus on the European context, particularly in relation to the kind of fan language that was popular in the Regency era, we can highlight some specific periods.

The use of fans as a means of communication became quite sophisticated in the 18th century, particularly in the courts of Europe where fan etiquette reached its peak.

1. 16th to 17th Century: In Europe, fans became fashionable accessories among the aristocracy in the 16th century, and their use as a communication tool developed over time.
2. 18th Century: By the 1700s, fans were widely used across Europe, and the ‘language of the fan’ was becoming increasingly codified, with many books and pamphlets published on the topic.
3. Regency Period (1811-1820): The Regency period in the United Kingdom is when fans were popular for both their practical use and as a form of communication among the upper class, particularly in England.

The decline in the use of fans as a discreet form of communication can be associated with several factors:

1. Late 19th to Early 20th Century: As the 19th century progressed, especially with the advent of the Victorian era, there were shifts in fashion and social etiquette that saw a decline in the elaborate use of fans for communication.
2. Post World War I: After World War I, social customs and women’s roles in society changed dramatically. With the 1920s and the flapper era, there was a move towards more open communication and less formality in social interactions.
3. Mid 20th Century Onwards: By the mid-20th century, fans were largely considered a decorative or ceremonial accessory rather than a necessity or a means of covert communication.

Today, fans are mainly used as fashion accessories, for traditional dances, or in regions with hot climates for practical purposes. The art of fan communication is now a historical curiosity rather than a living language.