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Janome, or snake-eye, traditional oiled-paper umbrellas. Popularly
used since the late seventeenth century, the janome umbrella is so
called because, when it is open, it resembles the eye of a snake.
Mai oogi, or dance fans. The folding fan was invented in Japan during
the Heian period (B.C. 794-1185). The richly decorated gold-paper-covers
ones shown here are not for use against the heat but for countless subtle
expressive functions in the traditional dance.
Uchiwa, or flat fans. The uchiwa was introduced from China
into Japan in ancient times. It is made by splitting bamboo into fine ribs,
leaving just enmough of the stalk intact to form a handle, and then covering
the framework with paper or silk. Many different kinds and shapes of uchiwa
are in use today.
