Enameled Floral Hairpin

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. Attached to the front of a fine lady’s coiffure, this elaborately designed silver hairpin branches flower blossoms on coiled springs that danced with each step. A true lady, however, was careful to not put too much sway to her hairpins, cultivating a walk that minimized the movement of her head.