bira kanzashi (dangling hairpin)

bira kanzashi (dangling hairpin) , Edo period (1600–1868)

Where object was made: Japan

Material/technique: gold; silver; coral

Credit line: William Bridges Thayer Memorial

Accession number: 1928.0320

Not on display

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Ornamental hairpins decorated the elaborate coiffures of Japanese courtesans in the late Edo period. Some were worn only by courtesans of a particular rank. Hairpins with dangles were also associated with the kamuro (courtesans-in-training) or with young courtesans. These are known as bira bira pins, so called for the tinkling sound that the metal dangles and beads made as the courtesan moved her head.

Exhibition Label: “Embodiment,” Nov-2005, Kate Meyer Ornamental hairpins decorated the elaborate coiffures of Japanese courtesans in the late Edo period. Some were worn only by courtesans of a particular rank. Hairpins with dangles were also associated with the kamuro (courtesans-in-training) or with young courtesans. These are known as bira bira pins, so called for the tinkling sound that the metal dangles and beads made as the courtesan moved her head.