What is war fans?

War fans, also known as tessen, are a type of folding fan that were popular in Japan during the feudal period, particularly among samurai warriors. These fans were originally used as a tool for keeping cool, but they were also designed to be used as a weapon in combat.

The war fan typically consisted of sharp, metal ribs that were hidden within the fan's folds. When unfolded, the fan could be used to strike an opponent with great force, causing significant injury. The fan could also be used to deflect blows or as a shield to block attacks.

In addition to their practical use in combat, war fans were also often adorned with elaborate designs and symbols that reflected the owner's status, clan, or personal style. They were considered a symbol of power and authority, and were sometimes bestowed as gifts to loyal warriors.

Although war fans are no longer used in combat, they are still produced and collected as historical artifacts and works of art. Some martial arts schools still practice techniques for using the war fan as a weapon, and they are sometimes used in traditional Japanese dance performances.