30-12-2017: INDIAN APPLIQUE HAND FAN RAJASTHAN A commemorative postage stamp

Applique is ornamental needlework in which pieces of fabric in different shapes and patterns are sewn or stuck onto a larger piece to form a picture or pattern. It is an antique old hand fan from Rajasthan sporting colourful frills and handle missing in this old rare fan. The origin of hand fans can be traced as far back as 4000 years ago in Egypt. The fan was seen as a sacred instruments used in religious ceremonies and was also seen as a symbol of power even in its early forms. The history of Indian Hand Fans is traced to ancient times for use in temples to fan deities, as also in royal courts and households. Department of Posts is releasing commemorative postage Stamps on the following 16 Indian Hand Fans.