Name/Title
FanEntry/Object ID
1981.38.1-2Description
Created in France by the famous fanmaker Duvelleory, who crafted fans for Queen Victoria’s court, and hand painted by the artist Adolphe Thomasse, the black cat fan held in Gunston Hall’s collections provides a rare and interesting look into a female Mason descendent. Owned by Homoiselle Caroline Davenport, the fan provides an insight into the gendered fashion trends of the late 19th century and early 20th century during the Belle Epoque era. As the fashion statements of silk and fans spread across Europe into the Americas, Homoiselle’s Black Cat fan provides a vessel for the modern day audience of Gunston Hall to gain a greater understanding of the personality of this female Mason descendant. As women’s history month continues, it is important to recognize the gendered nature that is innately connected with how we view historical artifacts and the glimpses they provide into the lives of women who did not receive similar attention in the public record as their male counterparts did.Acquisition
Accession
1981.38.1-2Source or Donor
Albert Bel FayAcquisition Method
GiftCredit Line
Gunston Hall CollectionMaterial
Mother of Pearl, Silk, Textile, LaceProvenance
Notes
Gift of Mrs. Albert Bel Fay
