Thursday, October 25, 2007

Fan

Myths, folklore & symbolism
fan: A common device in Babylonia, India, China, Persia, Greece, Rome, and in other cultures, it symbolizes sovereign rank, particularly when made of palm fronds or of ostrich or peacock feathers. In Hinduism the fan represents, among other things, ritual sacrifice, since the sacrificial fires are fanned with it. Especially in China and Japan, the movement of the fan was associated with defense against evil spirits. (Herder)

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous5:13 PM

    Speaking of mythology and symbolism, I have just recently read Alex Webster and The Gods and was amazed by how much I enjoyed its satire. I am so sure you would love it.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Cool, I'll check it out. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete