Description
This silver hairpin is in the shape of a bare sword, and is based on the legend of the famous sword Kogitsunemaru, which is sung about in the Noh play "Kokaji."
The unsheathed sword is likened to the shaft of a hairpin, and the decorative elements from the tsuba (guard guard) to the helmet are decorated with a shining golden fox. This design is inspired by the fox, an incarnation of Inari Myojin, who served as a comrade to the swordsmith Sanjo Munechika in the famous Noh play "Kokaji." The small fox clings to the sword, holding a mallet in its mouth, reminiscent of the legend that the Inari fox assisted in forging the sword. The tsuba features a traditional Chinese tsuba (guard guard sword) named after the small fox, and features circular openwork on both sides. The spiral pattern, characteristic of traditional Chinese tsuba swords, is engraved, resulting in a meticulous finish. The handle is meticulously carved with various large and small indentations to resemble shark skin. The subtle shading created by the delicate indentations creates a lustrous sheen characteristic of silver. It is not only beautiful when worn as an accessory, but also as an object of art, and has a striking presence. Although it has a sword motif, it is a hairpin that can be worn with not only kimonos and yukatas, but also everyday clothes.
Designer's thoughts
This hairpin is inspired by the legend of the now-defunct "Kogitsunemaru," a sword said to have been forged by the Heian period swordsmith Sanjo Munechika with the help of Inari Myojin. During the period when Japanese swords transitioned to their current curved forms, Munechika was a leading master craftsman and part of a school that created legendary swords. His fame is handed down to the present day in the Noh play "Kokaji." This story begins when a skilled craftsman accepted the monumental task of Emperor Ichijo, yet had no apprentices capable of supporting him. No matter how skilled you may be, there are times when you simply cannot accomplish something alone. Why not pray to this hairpin for the right companion to lend you a hand when you face such a moment? Inari Myojin, depicted on the handle, has long been worshipped by Japanese people as the god of bountiful harvests and prosperous business. Carry this hairpin as a talisman or close friend to ensure fruitful days.
| Item details | |
| material | Fox: Brass / Handle: Silver |
| size | Total length: approx. 16cm / shaft: approx. 11.5cm long |
| Shaft Features | The handle is made of silver, so you need to be careful with the amount of pressure you apply. If you apply too much force, it may bend or break. For those with long or thick hair, it is recommended to wear it in a half-up style or tied up, or as a second hairpin for a hairstyle. |
*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.
