Conservation Project: Costume Accessories, Fans and Hand Screens
Boards, trays, or boxes are used to surround and protect the edges of the fans. They work as handing devices to minimize direct contact and ensure that any loose parts, such as beadwork, inlay fragments, feathers, or ribbon, remain with the fan. The fans are also protected by custom fit supports made of fabric-covered padding or foam, which hold the fans in a position that maintains their shape and supports fragile parts.
See photos of fans in their custom mounts: