Kushi and Kogai Set with Raden Birds and Flowers - Lacquer, Mother of Pearl - Japan - Meiji/Taisho period A Japanese hair ornament set comprising a kushi (comb) and a kogai (hairpin), decorated in raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) on black lacquer, presented in its original fitted box. The arched comb is decorated with birds among roses and chrysanthemums, with a butterfly. The decoration combines two techniques: flat raden inlay, in which thin pieces of shell are cut and set into the lacquer, and three-dimensional carved shell figures, which give the birds and flowers a sculptural presence. The shell shimmers in iridescent tones of blue, green, pink and violet as the light moves across it. The kogai is decorated at both ends with matching floral raden motifs, and the black lacquer shaft retains a deep gloss. Kushi and kogai sets like this were worn with formal kimono hairstyles and were treasured accessories of Japanese women in the Meiji and Taisho periods. Today they are appreciated as small works of lacquer art. Details: - Country: Japan - Period: Meiji–Taisho period (approx. 1880–1926) - Technique: Raden (flat mother-of-pearl inlay and carved shell figures) on black lacquer - Motif: Birds, roses, chrysanthemums and a butterfly - Set: Kushi (comb) and kogai (hairpin) - Box: Original fitted presentation box with red trim and cream lining Dimensions: - Kushi: approx. 9.7 cm (H) - Kogai: approx. 16.7 cm (L) Condition: Good antique condition. The raden inlay is intact with a strong iridescent effect. Minor age-related wear consistent with use. The box shows age-related wear and discoloration to the lining. Please refer to all photographs carefully before bidding, as they form part of the description. Ships carefully packed and fully insured from Kyoto, Japan.