Asahi Beer Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art, Kyoto

During Japan’s Edo era, women’s clothing was strictly regulated based on their class or occupation. This made it difficult for ladies to express themselves through fashion based on their personal tastes. Many got around this by customizing their hair accessories. Innovative kushi (combs) and kanzashi (hairpins) were artisanally made to help women express their originality on their own terms. This exhibition includes a collection of hair accessories that showcase the expert craftsmanship of the era. Each of these accessories can be viewed as mini works of art. Woodblock prints depicting the styles of the time period will be displayed as well.