Description
This is a nostalgic and stylish hairpin with an antique finish that evokes the romance of the Meiji era.
This antique-style hairpin features a gas lamp motif, a symbol of modern enlightenment. The opening of Japan to the world marked the beginning of Western culture in the early Meiji period. Gas lamps were first used as streetlights on what is now Bashamichi Street. Until then, it was impossible to walk the streets at night without a lantern, so it's said that gas lamps attracted spectators from far away, creating a festive atmosphere. Their popularity spread rapidly, spawning the profession of "turn-on/turn-off lanterns," and they lit up the entire city. This hairpin, brimming with Meiji romance, is meticulously handcrafted by artisans, exuding a warm antique finish. The sturdy brass shaft makes it easy to wear even with long hair, and it can be worn alone. This hairpin is perfect for summer yukata, regardless of the season, whether you're wearing traditional Japanese or Western clothing.
Designer's thoughts
We have created a hairpin with a retro and nostalgic feel from a gas lamp. Gas lamps were considered one of the symbols of the Meiji Restoration and were often depicted in nishiki-e prints from that time. Their numbers gradually decreased after peaking during the Taisho era, and they eventually disappeared altogether. However, they remain beloved for their romantic, gentle light and retro atmosphere, and it is said that there are still around 6,000 of them across the country, including reproductions. By creating a hairpin that allows you to keep a close look at a gas lamp that appeared during such a turbulent era and still remains today, we hope to bring the history built up by our ancestors closer to you.
| Item details | |
| material |
brass |
| size |
Shaft: length approx. 12cm / Motif: length approx. 5.5cm x width approx. 2cm |
| Shaft Features | Although it is made of brass and is strong, it is a little short and thin, so it may bend if you apply too much force. For those with long or thick hair, it is recommended to insert it into a half-up style or tied up, or as a second hairpin for hairstyles. For those with shorter hair, it can be inserted into braids, etc. |
*You can use just one to tie up your hair.
*When using, please hold the shaft gently.
We sell handmade hairpins (kanzashi), each one carefully crafted to perfection.
We sell original hairpins and collaborative works by artists that can be worn casually with everyday wear or yukata, as well as traditional tortoiseshell hairpins, flower hairpins, and tsumami hairpins that go well with kimonos such as tomesode (long-sleeved kimono), furisode (long-sleeved kimono), and Shichi-Go-San (celebration of Shichi-Go-San). We also carry hair accessories and goods such as hair ties.
