Metallic kanzashi called 'jifa' were used both by men and women in the Ryukyu Kingdom and its material was designated based on a person's status. With hairstyles becoming complicated during the middle of the Edo period, Kanzashi, along with combs and kogai, became the necessities of women while it disappeared from men's customs of clothing except for the purpose of court function. Kanzashi were used for various purposes during the Edo period and the idea has been passed down that kanzashi was also used for self-defense. Kanzashi came into use as hair ornamentation during the Azuchi-Momoyama period when women's hairstyle gradually changed from long and straight hairstyle called 'tarekami' to various kinds of 'nihongami' (Japanese coiffure). At that time, therefore, the term 'kanzashi' referred to hair ornamentation in general and referred to comb decorations and kogai (ornamental hairpin) also. Although being introduced into Japan, it declined later because long flowing hairstyle called kokufu-yoshiki (native Japanese style) prevailed during the Heian period. Artifacts bundles of these sticks, which could be the origin of the comb, are in existence.ĭuring the Nara period, hair ornamentation was introduced from China together with various cultures. In the ancient period of Japan, people believed that magically signified power resided in a thin stick and the devil could be exorcised by inserting it into hair. The origin of kanzashi in Japan dates back to the Jomon period. however, her hair-style and Kanzashi change into the those suitable for her status. ![]() Maiko (apprentice geisha) wear hanging Kanzashi, which is more splendid than the ones for geigi (geisha), her senior. In the case of geisha (Japanese female entertainers at a drinking party), for example, guests who are versed in geisha parties called 'tsu' or ' suijin' can judge the status of the geisha in question from the quality of kanzashi and the way she wears them.Īmong women belonging to Karyukai (world of geisha), the way they do their hair up in Japanese style or the position of Kanzashi are pre-determined based on their status or position. There are a variety of ways to wear Kanzashi. ![]() Above all, Kanzashi made from bakelite that were produced in the early days of the Meiji period are highly valued antiques now. Existing Kanzashi produced during the early days of the Edo period are now scarce valuable collectors items since they are regarded as very precious in terms of both product quality and their materials they're made of. Although rare, Kanzashi were also made from crane bone for good luck. Coral, agate, jade and crystal were also used for the ornamental part of Kanzashi. Plastic (there are many kinds of plastic) is also used these days. In producing Kanzashi, a variety of materials were used including, without limitation, lacquered woods (boxwood, paulownia, ho, cherry), gold/silver plated metals (brass was generally used in the modern times thanks to its durability), tortoise shell and silk. ![]() Various kinds of kanzashi were produced and especially used during the latter part of the Edo period. Kanzashi is a hair ornamentation used by Japanese women. ![]() The term "kanzashi" means Japanese traditional accessories used by women in doing up their hair.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |