Description
The matchlock gun, which was introduced to Japan during the Sengoku period, is now available as a hairpin.
This unique hairpin features a gun barrel as its hairpin, with the muzzle pointing toward the hair. The entire gun barrel is given an antique finish, with a polished finish from the trigger to the tongs adding a touch of style. A silver, gold-plated butterfly graces the dangling trigger. Matchlock guns rewrote the history of warfare during the Sengoku period, ushering in a new era. From the mid-Sengoku period onward, they became a staple weapon for foot soldiers, and Japan is said to have been the world's largest gun-owning nation at the time. Oda Nobunaga, the hero of the era and the Sixth Heavenly Demon King, was also one of those who used guns to change the way people fought. The Oda quince crest is engraved in honor of the greatest Sengoku hero and his military record. The butterfly motif comes from the name of Oda Nobunaga's wife, Kicho, a cousin of Akechi Mitsuhide. While there are many theories about her life, this piece represents the bond between husband and wife as they endured a time of warring factions.
The shaft is slightly thin and short, so it is recommended to wear it alongside a main hairpin. Although it has a gun motif, it is a hairpin that can be worn with not only kimonos and yukatas, but also with other Western clothing.
Designer's thoughts
This exquisitely crafted hairpin recreates the matchlock gun, a weapon that revolutionized warfare during the Sengoku period. Originally introduced to Tanegashima approximately 500 years ago, the matchlock gun underwent unique improvements and developments within Japan, eventually being passed down to its birthplace via the same techniques. Honoring the unbroken tradition of craftsmanship, this exquisitely crafted hairpin embodies the beauty of practicality. It is well-known that Oda Nobunaga was the first to embrace innovation and achieve success. The delicate butterfly, which complements the blooming Oda quince crest in the center, is named after Nobunaga's wife, Nōhime, an alias for her. This is a piece perfect for styling your hair in a dashing style, evoking the fierceness of the hammer that cuts the gun and the spirit of support and unity in the midst of war.
| Item details | |
| material |
Silver (gold coated), brass (antique finish, partially polished finish) |
| size |
Length: approx. 15cm / Drop length: approx. 2.5cm |
| Shaft Features | Although it is made of brass, the stem is flat, so you need to be careful with the amount of force you use. If you use too much force, it may bend or break. 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 a hairstyle. 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.
