If you buy a handmade fan from ràfega you will always find on its external rods an engraving with the initials AEA, which means “Artisan Spanish Fan”.
The AEA seal is a certification, created in 2006 by the National Association of Fan Manufacturers and Artisans of Spain, which guarantees that a fan has been made in Spain, complying with traditional artisanal processes.
According to both organisations, the aim is to "protect and promote the tradition of the Spanish hand-made fan, as well as to ensure the authenticity and quality of the products."
The AEA seal seeks to preserve the following values:
- Authenticity: ensuring that the fan has been made in Spain using artisan techniques.
- Quality: demonstrate that the fans have had rigorous control of their materials and manufacturing process.
- Protecting heritage: helping to ensure that artisanal products are not replaced by imitations or industrial products.
- Cultural value: highlight pieces of cultural value, representing the rich history and artistry of Spanish craftsmanship.