Antique face screens.
Often mistaken for fans, face screens were quite widespread in the 19th Century.
Face screens were originally used to shield the face from heat from a fire or stove, this had a dual purpose to it, one being preventing a red flush to the skin which would be considered unbecoming, the second was to prevent the thick white makeup used by ladies in the Georgian and Victorian era from 'melting' in the heat.
Screen fans are said to be the oldest recorded style of fan with roots dating way back to 13th century and taking inspiration from palm leaves or bird wings.
Black Lacquer - Two pretty papier mache lacquered face fire screens. The handles are turned wood with ornate decoration and gilding in an oriental style. Scallop edged corners with central design of hand painted bouquet flowers with mother of pearl inlay. These are lovely quality screens but not without damage.
They both have missing screws/pins fixing the handles to the tops with a split in this area so both handles are loose. The black lacquer shows signs of wear and cracking of the lacquer on both and they have some small chips on the edges
Dimensions 23.5cm x 39cm
Mesh Embroidery - Pretty antique face fire screen dating mid 19th century. The handles are turned wood with ornate decoration and gilding in an oriental style. The mesh base has scalloped edges with central hand embroidery of detailed bouquet flowers. Lovely quality screen with some wear but over good condition for the age.
Dimensions 27cm x 41cm
Black Lacquer & Gold - Wonderfully Victorian decorated papier mache lacquered face fire screen. Scallop edged corners with central design of hand painted flowers exotic bird and pretty swags of gold leaf. The handle is turned wood with plain black finish. Lovely quality screen with some wear but over good condition for the age.
Dimensions 25cm x 39.5cm
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