Over a century ago, the demure hand-held accessory was used to convey messages rather than to create a breeze. We are aware of several of the gestures and their meanings.

• With handle to lips:  Kiss me
• Placing it on left ear:  You have changed
• Fanning slowly:  I am married
• Fanning fast:  I am engaged
• Open wide:  Wait for me
• Dropping:  We are friends
• Drawing across forehead:  We are watched
• Drawing across cheek:  I love you
• Carrying in left hand:  Desirous of acquaintance
• Twirling in right hand:  I love another
• Closing fan:  I wish to speak to you
• Letting it rest on right cheek:  Yes
• Letting it rest on left cheek:  No

A collection of Victorian style fans