The Palmyra palm has been one of India’s most important trees, providing leaves for manuscripts, mats, thatched roofs, fans, hats and umbrellas.

Palmyra fans were extensively made in Bengal and Madras. These were either large - spanning the average human height - or small, that served as personal, handheld fans. For the larger ones, servants were employed to fan the richer classes. Both types were often painted or ornamented.