Vintage Japanese Folding Fan (Sensu), Late Showa, 1966-1989

Antique Japanese Folding Fan (Sensu), Late Showa era, 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0815-1

A sweeping indigo-to-white gradation adorned with scattered gold foil -- handcrafted decorative sensu from the Late Showa era.

A sensu is a traditional Japanese folding fan, prized for centuries as both a practical object and a refined work of art. This exceptional example opens to a generous arc of pleated paper leaf, its ground shading from deep cobalt and violet at the outer edge through a luminous pale blue into a creamy white center -- a technique known as bokashi gradation, long associated with high-quality Japanese decorative fan craft. Across this atmospheric ground, the maker has applied passages of gold foil in bold rectangular blocks and scattered square fragments, evoking the shimmer of lantern light on water or gold dust drifting through night air. Brushed gold strokes add further movement and depth. The inner ribs are natural bamboo, visible on the reverse, while the outer guard sticks are finished in glossy black lacquer and meet at a carved, petal-form pivot cover -- a refined detail that signals the quality of the overall construction. Attributed to the Late Showa period (1966-1989), this antique Japanese folding fan represents the era's taste for elegant, painterly decoration.

Today, this striking sensu makes a compelling living room accent or Japandi-style wall art piece -- displayed fully open on its included bamboo stand, it commands attention on a shelf, console, or entryway surface. Its bold blue-and-gold palette works beautifully alongside minimalist decor, adding a layer of Japanese antique character without overpowering a modern interior. Framed or mounted flat, it would suit a home office or bedroom as a one-of-a-kind statement piece. A thoughtful housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese art and decorative objects, this fan carries both visual drama and genuine historical character.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Pleated paper leaf with applied gold foil decoration; natural bamboo inner ribs; black-lacquered outer guard sticks; bamboo display stand included
• Use: Decorative display fan; suitable for dance performance (odori-sen) or ceremonial use
• Modern Use: Wall art or shelf display in a living room or entryway; Japandi-style decorative accent; unique gift for collectors of Japanese antiques
• Features: Deep indigo-to-white bokashi gradation ground; scattered and blocked gold foil application with brushed gold passages; carved petal-form pivot cover in black lacquer; natural bamboo reverse ribs; bamboo display stand included
• Dimensions: 19 1/2"W x 1/2"D x 11 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent
• The stand is not included

A luminous piece of antique Japanese decorative art -- the kind of handcrafted sensu that brings quiet drama and wabi-sabi elegance to any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.