Fan c. 1940

Vincent Burzy painted this fan design, featuring vibrant floral patterns, with watercolor. Burzy lived through a time of significant societal changes, particularly concerning gender roles. The fan itself was more than just a practical item; it was a symbol deeply embedded in the social rituals of femininity. In the late 19th century, they were an essential accessory for women of a certain social class. The fan as a kind of non-verbal communication tool allowed women to convey messages, flirt, or express disapproval within the confines of social etiquette. In creating this design, Burzy engages with these established notions of femininity and social performance. The floral motifs, traditionally associated with delicacy and beauty, speak to the aesthetic expectations placed on women. Yet, the artwork also transcends these conventions, offering a space to think about the complex interplay between identity, expression, and the silent languages we use to speak to one another.