Vintage Japanese Kushi Kanzashi Hair Comb – Lacquered Boxwood, Peony & Genjiguruma

Features:

A beautiful vintage Japanese kushi-kanzashi (櫛かんざし) hair comb, crafted from traditional boxwood (tsuge) and finished in rich vermilion-red lacquer with an elaborate peony and Genjiguruma design.

The front features a magnificent golden peony (botan / 牡丹) with deep burgundy petals at its centre, surrounded by delicately detailed foliage and a Genjiguruma (源氏車), the traditional ox-carriage wheel motif associated with the aristocratic culture of classical Japan and The Tale of Genji.

The decoration is especially attractive, combining gold, green, burgundy and subtle iridescent accents against the glossy red lacquer. Fine outlines and carefully rendered floral details give the piece a wonderfully elegant appearance.

The reverse is decorated more simply with graceful green bamboo leaves and fine white detailing, providing a pleasing contrast to the elaborate front.

Traditional Boxwood Construction

Unlike modern plastic hair ornaments, this comb is made from boxwood (tsuge / 黄楊), a fine-grained hardwood traditionally prized in Japan for its strength, smooth finish and suitability for making combs.

The beautifully curved upper edge, closely spaced teeth and polished lacquer finish reflect the elegance of traditional Japanese hair accessories.

Measuring 11.5 cm (4.5″) wide and 5.5 cm (2.2″) high, it is a lovely size for wearing with a kimono or displaying in a collection of Japanese decorative arts.

Condition:

Excellent vintage condition, with beautifully preserved lacquer and vibrant decorative details. Please examine the photographs carefully for the exact condition.