Vintage Japanese Odori Sensu Folding Fan, Late Showa 1966-1989

Vintage Japanese Odori Sensu Folding Fan, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0378-1

A bold stage-style folding fan with nami wave motif, gold kamon crest, and black lacquered bamboo ribs -- a striking piece of vintage Japanese craft.

A sensu is a traditional Japanese folding fan, and this large example is crafted in the odori style -- designed for Japanese classical dance performance rather than everyday cooling. Odori sensu are distinguished by their generous span, long outer guard ribs, and vivid graphic designs meant to read clearly from the stage. This piece features a washi paper leaf boldly printed in orange and white, decorated with a flowing nami (wave) pattern rendered in orange, silver, and grey -- a classic motif evoking both the energy of moving water and the rhythmic sweep of a dancer's gesture. At the upper right, a circular gold kamon (family crest) depicts four folding fans arranged in a pinwheel, a motif closely associated with the performing arts world in Japan. The bamboo inner ribs are left in their natural finish, while the outer guard sticks carry a glossy black lacquer, and the decorative carved pivot piece at the base adds an elegant finishing touch. A small bamboo display stand is included, though it may not be original to the fan.

Displayed on its stand, this vintage Japanese fan makes an immediate visual statement in a modern home. Mounted on a wall or placed on a shelf, it brings the wabi-sabi aesthetic and graphic energy of Showa-era Japan into a living room accent, entryway feature, or home office display. The warm orange and gold palette works equally well in Japandi style interiors and mid-century modern settings. Its combination of folk artistry and stage drama makes it a unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone drawn to handcrafted Japanese decorative art. Whether displayed fully open or folded as a sculptural object, it carries an authentic cultural presence that mass-produced decor simply cannot replicate.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Bamboo ribs with black lacquer finish; natural bamboo inner sticks; washi paper leaf; carved black lacquer pivot piece; brass pivot pin
• Use: Odori (Japanese classical dance) performance fan; ceremonial or stage display
• Modern Use: Wall art or framed display accent; living room or entryway decorative piece; unique gift for collectors or Japanophiles
• Features: Large folding fan in odori style; washi paper leaf with orange and white ground; flowing nami (wave) pattern in orange, silver, and grey; gold kamon crest depicting four folding fans in a circular arrangement; black lacquered outer guard ribs contrasting with natural bamboo inner sticks; ornately carved black lacquer pivot piece; includes small bamboo display stand (may not be original)
• Dimensions: 19 1/2"W x 1/2"D x 11 1/2"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition -- minor surface wear and light creasing to the washi paper leaf consistent with age; lacquer on ribs intact; overall display quality.

A vivid and authentic piece of vintage Japanese decorative art -- bringing the grace and drama of traditional odori performance into any modern interior.

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 vintage 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.