See the World’s Only Hand Fan Museum

The Hand Fan Museum in Healdsburg is the only museum in the United States dedicated solely to the display of hand fans and is a perfect place to learn about the varied artistic and cultural uses of the seemingly simple hand fan. The fans themselves have been used for centuries as fashion accessories, in religious and ceremonial rituals, and even in battle. The fans depict a diverse variety of beautiful scenes in many mediums and patterns that tell the stories of the cultures and individuals who have used them.

Every society has used a hand fan of some sort. From palm fronds to feathers-from beautifully painted works of art to jewel encrusted, gold plated objects of incredible value. Fans were used in fashion, religion, battle and ceremony. Art, culture, geography and history – all in the palm of your hand. The museum also offers an array of beautiful fans for purchase.

The purpose of the Hand Fan Museum is to provide educational and cultural enrichment to the public by utilizing the hand fan as a vehicle for teaching history, art and geography, via publications, lectures and the establishment of a museum where actual hand fans from around the world will be exhibited. The Hand Fan Museum brings cultural and artistic history from around the world to Northern California. The museum is a jewel box-small in size but not in purpose. It is the first museum in the United States dedicated solely to hand fans and displays a permanent collection, as well as a rotating exhibit, that tell, often in beguiling detail, the stories of the cultures and individuals who used them. This endeavor is intended to be both educational and fun – bringing enjoyment to participants of all ages.

The Hand Fan Museum
309 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg
(707) 431.2500 • www.thehandfanmuseum.org