Rachel,

I had to deal with a few of these once. We made the choice to open them all
one last time, despite their fragility. Then we put each fan in a
high-sided tray, which was padded to support the fan properly. We also
designed the trays to stack. That way they never have to be opened/closed
again, and they are fully visible and accessible for research and
exhibition. I did not have to deal with any seriously damaged ones, but I
would treat them the same, and stabilize them for any future treatment.

Mark Janzen
Registrar/Collections Manager
Edwin A. Ulrich Museum of Art
Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection
Wichita State University
(316)978-5850



             "Rachel M.
             Foster"
             <RFoster@THEGRACE                                          To
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             <[log in to unmask]                                     Subject
             SE.LSOFT.COM>             fan collection


             05/06/2004 09:10
             AM


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Our institution recently acquired a collection of both folding and flat
fans.  Some of these date back to the 1800's and are very fragile.  The
fans are made from various materials, including mother of pearl, celluloid,
feathers, paper, and silk.  I was wondering the best way to store these
fans.  Some of the paper fans are very fragile and I am afraid they will
tear further if they are unfolded.  However, the silk and other fabric fans
are in good condition and can stand to be opened.  Also, the feathered fans
are in various conditions ranging from good to poor.  On the fans in poor
condition some of the feathers are missing and broken.  One of the fans is
held together with florist wire.  If there are any suggestions on how this
collection could be better cared for, they would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Rachel Foster =========================================================
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