1982.132 a-d; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Wooden Hand Fan with Vessel Design

Artifact ID1982.132 a-d

Date before 1976

Medium sandalwood, ivory, fabric, glass, metal

DimensionsOverall (a) (fan) H 9 in x W 15 7/8 in x D 1 1/4 in (22.9 cm x 40.3 cm x 3.2 cm)
Overall (b-c) (box) H 2 in x W 11 in x D 2 7/8 in (5.1 cm x 27.9 cm x 7.3 cm)

Physical Description(a) A light-colored wooden hand fan, each rib is intricately carved to create an image of identical vessels against a background of curved line work. Semicircular pieces of carved ivory are affixed to the top of each rib.

(b, c, d) A narrow rectangular box with transparent glass on the top and sides has edges decorated by beige fabric with a red and purple pattern. The interior is cushioned with bright yellow fabric.
Historical NoteFirst Lady Betty Ford received this fan from the People's Republic of China during a State Department trip in December 1975. In addition to attending a welcome banquet and other dinners, the First Lady visited places such as a carpet weaving factory and the College of Art in Peking (now Beijing), China, where she used her dance background to share a dance with the students.Additional Details

Custodial History NoteA foreign official gifted the item to First Lady Betty Ford during the Ford Administration. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.

National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)

National Archives Catalog SeriesHead of State Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)

Use Restriction Status Unrestricted

Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.

Collections

Head of State Gifts