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Hair Pins from Central Java

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.
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  • Another view....

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  • lovely!
  • The motif inside the arc is called “semanggi” (“clover”) and symbolizes the three phases of life.

  • Nice find!

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