Kanzashi

She's wearing a Hana Kanzashi and on the
 left side can be seen a Bira bira Kanzashi.

Kanzashi are hair ornaments use in traditional Japanese hair styles. Kanzashi have been used in Japan since the Jomon era, which lasted from 13000 BC to 300 BC, but originally they weren't as beautifully elaborate as they are today, in the Jomon era they were thin sticks or rods believed to have supernatural powers that warded off evil spirits. Wearing these sticks as a charm against curses became the origin of Kanzashi.

During the Nara Period, in the 710 to 784, the influence of Chinese culture was reflected in the design of fashion items, ornaments and Kanzashi.  At the time it was common for men and women to pay much attention to their hairstyles, which made the Kanzashi important for decoration. This changes later on as the fashion went back to long, straight hair and Kanzashi began to be used less.  However during the Edo Period, 1603 to 1867, hairdressing became an interest once again and the current styles of Kanzashi began to form.  The Kanzashi which was originally a stick began to be ornamented by various materials and also began to take many different shapes and sizes, but the most beautiful Kanzashi were left to those with samurai class or higher, since the ordinary people could not afford them.

During the later part the Edo period, there were five styles which were most known.

Hana Kanzashi is the most gorgeous style. They are most famously worn by geiko and maiko, and feature strings of dangling flowers made of silk. These are seasonal and change for each month of the year.
Mimikaki Kanzashi was named after the ear pick. It was useful to scratch the itchy scalp after styling the hair. It was most popular with the common people.
Matsuba Kanzashi was named after the falling pine needle since the leg of the Kanzashi resembles it.
Tama Kanzashi was basically the Mimikaki Kanzashi with a ball, with either one or two legs. The Tama was made of coral or jade. They are the most popular types even today.
Hirauchi Kanzashi usually have a thin, silver or gold body and are produced with a flat, circular design. Additionally, they formed fretworks or curves of quite thin lines of a family crest or flower crest.
Bira bira Kanzashi are mainly made of metal with a fan-shaped top part. They have numerous interesting ornamental features, like long weeping chains that tinkle when moved, with tiny figures of birds or butterflies at the bottom.

Nowadays since the use of kimono has decreased so has the use of Kanzashi. The art of making Kanzashi has also decreased and there are only five recognized Kanzashi artisans in Japan.  Because of books and instructional videos over the Internet the art of making a beautiful Kanzashi can be shared around the world but at the same times those interested in going down the path as Kanzashi artisans are low.  As part of the Japanese culture this is something that should be preserved and shared. 


Matane!
またね！