Kamikazari (hair ornaments) like these were similar to those that adorned the hair of wealthy merchants’ and high-ranking warriors’ daughters during the Edo Period (1603-1898). By the Taisho Era (1912-1926) this type of Kamikazari came to only be used during one’s wedding.

It is interesting to observe the many changes that occurred in women’s everyday fashion while their wedding attire remained unchanged. It reflects how although the Taisho Era was a time of great change for women, everything about marriage still adhered to old customs, strictly controlled by the family.

The work is a remnant of a Kamikazari from around the Taisho Era (1912-1926). It has lost the hairpin it was originally attached to. Now, detached from its traditional setting in arranged marriages, the object can be appreciated as an exceptional art piece. Its warmth can be embraced easily by a wooden pedestal or lacquer tray. Alternatively, like many of the other works in this collection, it could be fashioned into a great broach.