Folding fan of a type referred to in Japan as a Hiōgi, which takes its name from the Japanese term ōgi ((i.e., a fan composed of tapering blades held together at the top by an interweaving cord or ribbon) and hinoki (cypress), the type of wood from which it is usually made.

Highly decorative, its function is ceremonial rather than practical and in its fullest form was the official fan of the Japanese Court. The blades are painted with a typical composition of stylised clouds and other motifs such as the pine tree and crane (representing longevity and good fortune) and the tortoise (symbol of wisdom and good luck). From each guard hang coloured streamers of plaited silk cord. The pivot end is furnished with a decorative rivet in the shape of a butterfly on one side, a bird on the other.