Uchiwa facts for kids
An Uchiwa is a special kind of fan from Japan. People often use these fans to create a cool breeze, especially when the weather is hot. Uchiwa fans are an important part of Japanese traditions throughout the year. They are often given as thoughtful gifts during different seasons. Long ago, the first uchiwa fans were made from large leaves or even animal hair. Their original purpose was for purification and prayer. Over many years, these fans changed. Today, they are usually made from bamboo and paper.
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The History of Uchiwa Fans
The very first uchiwa fans can be seen in old records from ancient China. You can also spot them in wall paintings from Ancient Egypt. This shows how old and widespread the idea of hand fans is! By the end of the Kōan (Muromachi period) period in Japan, uchiwa fans were being made from bamboo and paper. This made them lighter and easier to create.
Famous Designs and Uses Over Time
Uchiwa fans have always been decorated in many different ways. During the Han dynasty in China, famous artists who specialized in beautiful writing, called calligraphers, often decorated these fans. Later, during Japan's Edo period, uchiwa fans became popular souvenirs. People would buy them when they visited shrines. In the Meiji period, people from other countries really liked uchiwa fans. They started buying them and taking them back home, making the fans famous worldwide.
What Uchiwa Fans Are Used For
Uchiwa fans have several cool uses! Their main job is to help people stay cool on hot days by creating a breeze. They are also used in cooking, especially for fanning fires or charcoal to make them hotter. Some people even use uchiwa fans for traditional purposes, like purifying or warding off sickness. You will almost always see uchiwa fans being used in summer festival dances in Japan. They add a beautiful and traditional touch to the performances.
Images for kids
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Handheld Brise fan from 1800
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Ready For The Ball by Sophie Gengembre Anderson.
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Japanese foldable fan: Painted by Katsushika Hokusai.
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Fig. 3. Bengalese fans used in Indian homes.
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Fan (Tahi'i), 19th century, Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia. Plant fibre, wood. Brooklyn Museum.
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Hand fan crafted of leather from southern Thailand
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Very old ornamental fan from Sri Lanka
