#japanasks

[koikishu]

Hello there! I ran across this in an antique store recently, and I wonder if you could tell me anything about it? I was very curious, but I can't read the kanji and I'm sure the store had no idea (they'd marked it "geisha wig" which I thought was unlikely.) Thank you!

Sure! It seems you're right; it's VERY likely NOT a geisha wig.

If it's anything like the wig (i.e. katsura) in this link, then it's likely a Taka-Shimada that's ready for use by traditional Japanese brides. This post by MissMyloko explains the subtle differences between an actual Geiko/ Geisha Shimada katsura and the more common bridal Taka-Shimada katsura.

What also makes it obvious that it's not a geisha katsura is the red & white mottoi (i.e. "ribbon") tied behind the maegami (i.e. bangs) as well as the white wire tied & splayed in an open fan shape at the apex of the mage (i.e. topnot). Red & white together are celebratory colors for events like weddings in Japan & most traditional bridal kimono ensembles are mostly white with red accents.

Hope this helps!