Gold Hairpins from Song-Yuan Dynasties

A group of eight gold hairpins, Song to Yuan dynasty Varying…
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A group of eight gold hairpins, Song to Yuan dynasty Varying sizes from 15.5 cm to 19.2 cm long (8). Hairpins made from folded long pins such as this example are called zhegu chai and were popular during the Song and Yuan dynasties. Simpler designs such as plain and ribbed examples are associated with the Song Dynasty. Twisted examples, such as those in this lot, emerged as a new trend during the Yuan dynasty, known as ' chi -tiger' pins. The top fold of the pins are chiselled into 'floral' designs, and the first 'twists' immediately below the 'flower', the two ' chi -tigers'. The combination of the flower and the tigers are the most essential elements in such designs. Hairpins during the Song and the Yuan dynasties are made of solid gold, hence are heavier than the later pieces. For similar examples, see Yang Zhishui, Gold and Silver Jewellery in Ancient China, Volume 1, Palace Museum Publishing, China, 2018, pp. 155-56, 211211

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  • Song Dynasty - The Song Dynasty was a ruling dynasty in China from 960 to 1279 AD. It was divided into two periods, the Northern Song (960?1127) and the Southern Song (1127?1279). The emperor was the ultimate authority, but he relied on officials who were selected based on their merit and skills rather than their family background or social status. The Song Dynasty was a period of great artistic and cultural achievements, particularly in the areas of poetry, painting, and calligraphy. The Chinese invented the printing press during this period, which revolutionized the spread of knowledge and ideas. During the Song Dynasty, China had a prosperous economy and was a centre of international trade, particularly in luxury goods such as silk, tea, and porcelain. The use of paper money became more widespread during this period, facilitating commerce and trade.  

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