Antique Chinese gilded hairpin with kingfisher feather

Antique Chinese hairpin decorated with extensive gilding and traces of kingfisher feathers.

Chinese hairpins, known as zan, are traditional ornaments particularly widespread during the Ming and Qing dynasties. They were used to secure elaborate hairstyles and also had symbolic functions, indicating social status and important life transitions such as coming of age.

The finest examples feature kingfisher feather inlay, applied using the tian-tsui technique, valued for its intense iridescent effect. This type of craftsmanship was reserved for high-status contexts due to its complexity and the cost of materials.

Provenance: China
Period: late 19th – early 20th century

Dimensions: 13.5 x 6.5 cm (5.31 x 2.56 inches)