Remarkably Detailed Resin-and-Wire Hairpins by Sakae Mimic Elaborate Wings and Petals

All images © Sakae

Continuing a millennia-old Japenese tradition of kanzashi, Tokyo-based artist Sakae (previously) constructs intricately detailed hairpins from wire and resin. In their earliest and simplest form, kanzashi were made of a simple stick or rod meant to protect the wearer from evil spirits. Over time, they evolved to include combs and a wide range of materials, becoming widely popular during the Edo period when hairstyles became more elaborate.

Sakae’s contemporary iterations connect to her rich cultural heritage, adorning customary hairstyles during special occasions like ceremonies or weddings. She creates the luminous surfaces of insect wings, flower petals, and dew drops by using dip resin, a type of liquid material that can be applied between strands of wire and solidified with heat.

Sakae periodically sells her pieces via auction, which you can find updates about on her website and Facebook.

A hairpin shaped like a luna moth.

A hairpin shaped like a flower.

A hairpin shaped like Japanese maple leaves.

A hairpin shaped like a flower.

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