Comb (pair with 2003/1.374)
Japanese
Description
Hair accessories such as this comb and pin were popular among women of the upper classes from the Heian period (794–1185) onward. At the time, aristocratic women grew their hair long to signify their sophistication and wealth. The length of their hair showed they possessed the means for its upkeep, and adorning it with exquisite accessories made with labor-intensive materials and techniques indicated their refined taste.
The woodblock print Genji and the Young Damsels, also in UMMA's collection (1948/1.190 - 192), illustrates how these items would have been worn by the court ladies featured in The Tale of Genji.
Subject Matter:
This Meiji-era comb was commonly used by upperclass women starting in the Heian period, as having long hair was perceived as a reflection of one's wealth and status. These accessories were also worn to emphasize an individual's refined taste and sophistication since the accessory was made with costly, labor-intensive techniques and materials.
Usage Rights:
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.