The handheld fan at some point in time was a fashion statement and a marker for the socioeconomic status of women. Throughout its existence for more than a millenia, the fan also served a practical purpose: it kept people cool throughout hot, humid seasons. The handheld fan easily slides open into a lightweight contraption used to induce airflow. But when it is not in use, it folds up into a small, easily transportable piece. It is a design of desirability, as it has not changed significantly for the last thousand years.
