Ruyi Hairpin

c. 1900
$98 USD SOLD
Dimensions
H: 5.75" Dia: 1.0"
Materials
Materials
Silver
Collection #
NN008F
Estimated Shipping
$10

Although eyes were certainly drawn to the high, fan-shaped headdresses that Qing-dynasty women affixed to back of their heads, it was the finishing touch of a hairpin or two that completed the look. This silver hairpin ends in a cluster of spirals and auspicious ruyi, symbols of longevity and good fortune. Topped by a minuscule double gourd, the decorative end resembles a conch shell, a symbol of protection from all evil.

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Fungus of Immortality

Originally a Daoist symbol from ancient Chinese mythology, the ruyi is an auspicious symbol that references the lingzhi fungus, also known as reishi, a mushroom with healing properties thought to ensure immortality.

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Elizabeth Krueger | Elizabeth Krueger Design

“PAGODA RED was extremely supportive in helping to pull accessory options together for the Lake Forest Showhouse. After providing them with details and our vision on how we were looking to finish our space, Laurene helped curate options that made it easy for us to edit and finalize. It's also no surprise that the unique pieces we used in our showhouse space were some of the first to sell.”

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