"uchiwa" (団扇) are non-folding, flat, oval fans. they are still used today for cooling rice in the preparation of sushi, in dance performances, and as a cooling tool. historically, "uchiwa" were a predominantly female accessory, men typically carrying folding fans known as "ōgi" (扇), "suehiro" (末広) or "sensu" (扇子). they are associated with summer, traditionally having been sold only during the summer months, and decorated with summer imagery. at least one modern critic argues that, due to their use by women during periods of heat, "uchiwa" "can have suggestive connotations."