LAJOUE Jacques de (Ecole de) Fan

LAJOUE Jacques de (Ecole de) (1686-1761)

Watercolor on paper Circa 1735

This beautifully detailed hand fan, reveals a central painted scene that depicts an 18th-century garden. In the background, large classical architectural structures, such as arches and columns, can be seen.

The foreground features four aristocratic figures dressed in elegant, period-specific clothing. On the right, a seated woman in a blue gown is playing a stringed instrument, possibly a lute or guitar she is accompanied by a male figure playing the transversale flute. Two other figures on the left, a man and a woman, are engaged in conversation, with the man gesturing towards her.

There are birds including  a peacock, ducks ands cranes, adding to the opulent, peaceful garden setting.

The lower portion of the fan, where the guards and sticks are visible, is decorated with intricate, chinoiserie, colorful floral and scrollwork patterns in gold and pastels. Some additional medallions containing classical-style portraits adorn the sides of the fan, further enhancing its decorative and artistic style.

This hand fan, likely from the Rococo or Neoclassical period, showcases a scene of leisure, elegance, and high society, reflecting the refined taste of its era.

On the reverse, The fan, reveals a more minimalist design compared to the previous one. The central scene features a solitary female figure dressed in a bright pink gown, seated or standing in a serene, outdoor environment. The background is simple, with greenery and bushes surrounding the figure, conveying a sense of calm and tranquility.

The edges of the fan are adorned with Chinese figures and small floral motifs, featuring roses and other blossoms, which add a subtle decorative touch. These floral decorations are placed at intervals along the ribs of the fan, giving it a balanced and harmonious aesthetic.

The lower part of the fan, where the ribs and guard sticks are visible, showcases intricate latticework or carvings. The craftsmanship in this section is ornate, featuring finely detailed cut-out patterns. The guard sticks are decorated with floral engravings and possibly inlaid colors, matching the soft pastel theme of the fan.

Chinoiserie was a popular style of decoration for fans in the mid 18th century.