Gallery

A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.

Hair Pins from Central Java

Posted by Edith D on November 20, 2017 at 1:16am

Javanese hair pins like these typically come in sets of three. Frequently the center pin has a slightly different motif. These pins came from the "Pura Mangkunegaran", a palace in Surakarta ("Solo"). I was told that they belonged to a member of Mankunegaran IX's family. However, they are most certainly ordinary objects (not for ceremonial use.) These are good workmanship, but at best are made from coin silver. The top ornaments are cast, and set with "zircon". These are welded onto the shafts of the hairpins. The pins are probably early to mid twentieth century. The motifs are actually based upon ancient Javanese symbols.

Comments

Edith D November 20, 2017 at 1:27am

Another view....
Cordelia Donohoe November 21, 2017 at 9:42pm

lovely!
Edith D February 6, 2018 at 8:14am

The motif inside the arc is called “semanggi” (“clover”) and symbolizes the three phases of life.
Alaa eddine SAGID February 12, 2018 at 8:46am

Nice find!