Keeping cool with handheld fans

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In a time when women were restricted by social etiquette norms, the fan was also used as a means of communication. A book published in 1797, Fanology or the Ladies Conversation Fan, gave a list of explicit instructions on how to use it to convey discreet messages. According to the book, the English alphabet was divided into five hand positions (with the letter J excluded):

• Hold the fan in left hand and touch your right arm = A–E

• Hold the fan in right hand and touch your left arm = F–K

• Place the fan against your heart = L–P

• Raise the fan to your mouth = Q–U

• Raise the fan to your forehead = V–Z