Antique Chinese Kingfisher Hairpin

Antique Chinese hairpin decorated with extensive gilding and remnants of kingfisher feathers. Small glass pearls are present as ornaments on the front part.

Chinese hairpins, known as zan, are traditional ornaments that were particularly widespread during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Used to secure complex hairstyles, they also had a symbolic function, indicating social status and ritual transitions, such as entering adulthood.

The finest examples feature decorations with kingfisher feathers, applied according to the tian-tsui technique, appreciated for its intense iridescent effect. This type of craftsmanship was reserved for high-status contexts due to its complexity and the cost of the materials.

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

Dimensions: 4.33 X 1.57 in (11 X 4 cm).