Vintage Japanese Mai-ogi Dance Fan with Nagare Motif and Kamon Crest, Late Showa 1966-1989

Vintage Japanese Mai-ogi Dance Fan with Nagare Motif and Kamon Crest, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0378-3

A striking odori folding fan bearing a gold kamon crest and flowing water motif -- a rare piece of vintage Japanese performing arts heritage.

A mai-ogi is a large folding fan used in Japanese classical and folk dance (odori) performance, carried or swept through the air to accentuate the dancer's movements and express seasonal themes. This late Showa-era example is crafted in the traditional manner: a paper leaf mounted on multiple bamboo inner spines, anchored between a pair of boldly black-lacquered outer guard ribs, and secured at the pivot by a brass pin. The leaf is printed in a serene palette of white and soft mint-green, with flowing water (nagare) lines rendered in layered silver and mint -- a motif evoking the quiet movement of a Japanese stream. At the upper right, a gold-printed circular kamon (family or school crest) depicts four folding fans arranged in a pinwheel formation, adding a ceremonial formality consistent with performance-grade fans associated with a specific dance school or troupe. A decorative black cord tassel at the base pivot completes the ensemble. The construction and scale are consistent with a handcrafted Japanese dance prop made for stage use rather than everyday carry.

Today this mai-ogi makes a captivating piece of Japanese wall art -- displayed fully open on its included bamboo stand or mounted flat against a wall as a living room accent or entryway focal point. Its mint and white color story and bold gold crest translate beautifully into Japandi style or minimalist decor, pairing well with natural linen, rattan, and neutral palettes. It would also make a unique gift for collectors of Japanese vintage folk art, Japanophiles, or anyone drawn to the theatrical elegance of traditional Japanese performing arts. Displayed on a shelf or sideboard, it brings an effortless cultural conversation piece to any modern home.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Paper leaf; bamboo inner spines; black-lacquered outer guard ribs; brass pivot pin; black cord tassel
• Use: Mai-ogi -- a large folding fan used as a prop in Japanese classical and folk dance (odori) performance
• Modern Use: Framed or open-stand wall art; living room or entryway decorative accent; unique gift for collectors of Japanese folk art
• Features: Mint-green and white paper leaf with silver nagare (flowing water) motif; gold-printed circular kamon depicting folding fans in a pinwheel arrangement; multiple bamboo inner spines with contrasting black-lacquered outer guard ribs; brass pivot pin; black decorative cord tassel; includes small bamboo display stand
• Dimensions: 19 1/2"W x 1/2"D x 11 1/2"H
• Condition: Good -- minor age spotting on paper leaf consistent with vintage use; overall structure and lacquer ribs intact
• The stand is not included

A graceful piece of vintage Japanese performing arts craft -- equally at home on a dance stage or as a statement accent in a modern Japandi-inspired 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.