Japanese Antique Hairpin, Maki-e from The Tale of Genji
Price on Request
Japanese Kanzashi hairpin, maki-e on hand carved wood. A dadaiko (large drum used for court music) and maku (outdoor fence made out of cloth) under the maple trees. They are pictorial subjects from chapter 7 of The Tale Of Genji, Momiji no Ga (An Autumn Excursion). There is a famous scene frequently illustrated from this chapter; Genji, a young and handsome grandson of the emperor, danced 'Sei Kai Ha", Waves of the Blue Ocean, with a maple branch on his crown, which made all the jaws of court ladies' drop. Here, without the presense of Genji, you are inside of the Imperial Courtyard. This is larger (wider and thicker) than a regular hairpins but very light (boxwood?) with a deep shade of gold and gentle colors as well. Very beautiful! Signed (sho giku?), 6 3/4" and in excellent condition. Taisho to early Showa period.
