We feature the largest selection of Spanish hand fans, or abanicos, available in the US. Everything from hand painted Spanish fans to large pericon dance fans. Fans used for flamenco, ballet, belly dance or any other stage performance. High quality Spanish folding fans in stock and ready to ship.

The origin of these fans, or abanicos, began in Egyptian times with artisans using feathers. The Japanese were first to make the fans foldable, inspired by a bat’s wing. Brought into Europe in the 16th Century by the Portuguese as an expensive object, the use of hand fans by upper class ladies signified class. In time, their use spread and everyone began using them. The shape, color, material and size determined the ladies societal class.

Over time, the use of abanicos spread, and dancers began using them. Spanish hand fans were also believed to have a “Secret Language” to convey messages. Young ladies would attend events with a female chaperone to watch over them. The girls found a way to interact with admirers using their hand fans. Using different fan gestures, they would avoid the attention of their chaperone.

In Spain, hand fans play an essential role in the culture for weddings and dance, as well as providing relief from the summer heat. Spain is one of the few European countries that still manufactures authentic hand fans.

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