In China, a fan is merely a tool used in summer to create a breeze, cool off, or shield oneself from the sun, and it is quite common for men to use fans. However, in Spain, men using fans in public may be ridiculed.
The second peculiar use of the fan, which I will focus on today, is its ability to convey messages through a young woman's gestures and expressions, allowing other men to understand what she wishes to communicate. This is known as "fan language flirting," which I find to be the most fascinating aspect.
Fan language flirting emerged between the 18th and 19th centuries. Due to the multifaceted control of traditional religions, couples in love could not express their feelings openly in social settings, so men would use different fingers of their left hand to point to various parts of their right hand, indicating different letters or words to ask the woman different questions. The questioned young woman would then use "fan language" to respond to the man's inquiries. For example, if she slowly waved her open fan, it indicated that he was indifferent to her. However, if she held an open folding fan, it meant she was saying, "Please do not forget me." If she placed her index finger on the fan's ribs, it signified, "We must talk." If she waved the fan with her left hand, it indicated, "Do not flatter me!" If she entered the living room and put away her folding fan, it meant she would not be going out today. But if she was fanning herself on the balcony, it indicated that she would be going out for a walk shortly...
As time passes, the "fan language of love" has evolved, showcasing the rich and colorful customs of Spain!