Mother-of-pearl fan makers for generations
Brothers Francisco, Ángel and Javier Blay Villa are the third generation of fan artisans. Their workshop Abanicos y Restauración Blay Villa in Aldaia specialises in the production of fans made out of mother-of-pearl, bone and fine woods. They also restore fans from all periods. The history of the Blay family goes back to the beginning of the 20th century when Isidoro Blay arrived in Aldaia and dedicated himself to the production and trade of fans. All his descendants have dedicated themselves to the same craft.
Among them Paco Blay, who, in the decade of 1950, went to stay in Paris to learn the trade of the last French mother-of-pearl fan makers. From his marriage to Angelita Villa, four children were born: Francisco, Ángel, María Dolores and Javier, who devoted themselves with passion to the art of the fan. They are currently the only manufacturers of mother-of-pearl rods in Europe and use ancient techniques, tools and methods, both for the production of current pieces and for the restoration of antique fans of all periods and materials.
Where
Abanicos-Restauración Blay Villa
