Kushi and Kanzashi Hair Accessory
Antique Tama Coral Ball Style Kanzashi Set, | Maiko Yakko Shimada Beads
Age:1912-1926 (Taisho Period)
Descriptive qualities& condition:
Dimensions: Kanzashi – 6-0” L; Beads -3-1/2-7-0” L
This set is specifically worn from October to May when the leaves are turning through the countryside. Shown are a two-piece set, one with seven mottled coral beads on a silk thread typically tied to the hair/bun to accent the hairstyle, and a two prong brass hairpin with a larger coral bead and Mimikaki, (ear instrument). At some point in history in Japan, hair ornamentation was considered to be “vain” and was prohibited by law because women were now allowed to show an excessively high opinion of one's appearance. To circumvent that law, an ear spoon was attached to the end of the Kanzashi so it could pass as a utilitarian piece rather than a vanity item.
It costs around $500,000 to train a geisha, for which most of this cost is found in hairstyles and Kimono. A Geisha’s hairstyles vary based on the geisha’s rank, although a Geisha, of the highest rank, will typically wear wigs for banquets and special appearances. This set is in its original indigo color cloth-covered box.
Vintage Condition: This is an exceptional pristine condition, beautifully detailing giving depth to the finish. “As is”, and retains the original craft/workmanship. No discoloration, chipping/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage shown.
NOTE: A Japanese comb and hairpin are about much more than just styling hair. Some 400 years ago, Japan took the simple comb and transformed it into an elegant beauty accessory that became a work of art. Japanese Kushi, (combs), and Kanzashi, (hairpin), became expressions of a woman’s character, social class, and religion. People could even tell what neighborhood someone lived in by looking at their hair ornaments. According to an ancient Japanese proverb, “A woman’s hair is her life”, (Kami wa onna no inochi), and from the early 1600s until the beginning of the modern era, decorative combs and hairpins have been an important part of Japanese fashion.
