Fan
Category
Objets de vertu
Date
13 Jul 1878
Materials
Cherrywood, Gilt, Glass, Velvet
Measurements
14 x 22 in
Order this imageCollection
Hughenden, Buckinghamshire
NT 428696
Caption
This cherrywood fan hanging on the wall at Hughenden is a statesman’s souvenir. It was presented to Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli (1804–81) at the conclusion of the Congress of Berlin in 1878. A power struggle was taking place in the eastern Mediterranean between Russia, other European powers and the declining Ottoman (Turkish) Empire. The leaders of Europe were invited to Berlin by German chancellor Otto von Bismarck (1815–98) to discuss these conflicts over territory. Despite ill health, Disraeli joined the negotiations and was actively involved in redrawing European borders. The Ottoman delegate, Mahomet Ali, was delighted with the outcome of the congress. He presented this fan to Disraeli as a keepsake in gratitude for his diplomacy, and each member of the congress signed a blade. For Disraeli, the fan – now displayed at his former home in Buckinghamshire – symbolised ‘peace with honour’ in Europe. Yet many resented the outcomes of the congress, and the decisions made in restructuring the borders of southern Europe would sow the seeds of future conflicts.
Summary
Cherrywood fan in gilt and mirror fan frame edged with beading and swags. Glazed. On red velvet mount. The fan was taken to the Congress of Berlin by Mahomet Ali, signed by all members of the Congress, and presented by Sir Alexander R. Murray, K.C.I.E., C.B.E.
Provenance
Presented by Sir Alexander Murray.