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Japanese Tortoiseshell Kushi Hair Comb

  • This Japanese kushi, or hair comb, dates to the 19th-century Meiji period
  • A work of art, this kushi is crafted of tortoiseshell
  • Graceful golden enameling accented by grasshoppers adorns this comb
  • Today, kushi are worn with the kimono during traditional Japanese ceremonies
  • Get complete item description here
$2,450
Item No. 30-2368

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Description
A beautiful piece of Japanese artistry, this kushi, or hair comb, is both an elegant hair ornament and an exquisite work of art. Crafted from luxurious tortoiseshell, the kushi features a delicate golden enamel scallop pattern interspersed with charming a grasshopper's motif. Japanese kushi such as this one have been used since the prehistoric Jomon period, and the ornaments became an important part of women’s fashion beginning in the 17th century. Not only did the. . .
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A beautiful piece of Japanese artistry, this kushi, or hair comb, is both an elegant hair ornament and an exquisite work of art. Crafted from luxurious tortoiseshell, the kushi features a delicate golden enamel scallop pattern interspersed with charming a grasshopper's motif. Japanese kushi such as this one have been used since the prehistoric Jomon period, and the ornaments became an important part of women’s fashion beginning in the 17th century. Not only did the gorgeous combs have a functional and aesthetic purpose, but they also served as expressions of a woman’s wealth, class, and religion. Today, kushi and other traditional hair ornaments are worn only with the kimono during traditional Japanese ceremonies, and pieces of such exquisite artistry and quality as this one are quite rare.

19th century, Meiji period

4” length
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Japanese Tortoiseshell Kushi Hair Comb
Period: 19th Century
Origin: Asia
Type: Vanity Accessories
Depth: 0.1 in. (0.25 cm)
Length: 4.0 in. 
Width: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Height: 2.0 in. (5.08 cm)

Buy With Confidence

For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

Bill Rau

Bill Rau Third-Generation Owner

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

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