Paper leaf fan commemorating the balloon flight of Jacques Charles and the brothers Jean and Noel Robert on December 1, 1783. Hand colored engraving with gouache, the music and five verses of "Le globes des Tuilleries, ou le char volant sur l'air: l'amite vivte et pure" on verso. Circa 1780s. Fan approximately 10 1/2"H x 18"W. Some discoloration throughout, creasing at pleats, apparent restoration at left side, inlay missing from top of one guard and minor cracks to inlay on both guards; scratches and losses to box, one latch missing.
Bonhams January 1997; collection of a prominent Connecticut family.

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