On a metal 2 prong hair pin (Kanzashi) (a) with a scooped end is half opened detachable fan (b) on its side. A samurai helmet is placed directed on top of the opened sections of the fan. Four plum blossoms surround the upper 180 degrees of th helmet. A coral bead is in the center of the three opened blossoms. The second blossom from the left is closed with3 petals, each opened blossom has five petals. Plum twigs are connected to the blossoms and run parallel to the hair pin prong. Hanging from the fan's side is a metal chain swaged from one end of the fan to the center (of helmet) and then again swagged to the other end. (This medallion's center link is broken connecting the chain to the helmet). The side chains are 4 1/2cm long , with a coral bead in the middle. hanging from the end of the chain is a flat metal duck medallion with etching showing an eye and feathers. These hair ornaments were mainly used in the Edo period from 1615-1868. Considered good luck. They were both functional and decorative. The end of this period elaborate display of wealth and luxury were condemned by law. The women passed these decorative hair pins as pieces of function. Ex,. Ear cleaner and scalp scratcher. Today they are worn for New Year's, Weddings, and Geisha costuming.

1990.039.002