Joy on the Plum Branch Tassel Hairpin

The magpie has long been China's bird of good tidings. The classical Bird Classic records that the magpie's cry foretells joy, and a magpie perched among plum branches forms the beloved motif 喜上梅梢, joy come to the plum branch, a wish for happy news and good fortune. This hairpin, drawn from a Ming dynasty carved red lacquer tray of magpie and plum in the Palace Museum collection, brings that image to life. A magpie carved from natural mother-of-pearl alights mid-flight, luminous against golden plum blossoms set with pearls and a red agate heart. Beneath it falls a long tassel of red agate, pearl, and gold, ending in warm agate droplets that sway with every step.

Key Features

• Joy on the Plum Branch (喜上梅梢): A magpie among plum blossoms is a classic Chinese emblem of happy news and good fortune, the bird whose call was said to foretell joy.
• Mother-of-Pearl Magpie: The magpie is carved from natural mother-of-pearl, poised mid-flight, its softly iridescent lustre shifting with the light. Each is unique.
• Five-Petal Plum Blossoms: Golden plum blossoms are set with small pearls and a glowing red agate centre, a delicate counterpoint to the pale bird.
• Flowing Agate Tassel: A long tassel of red agate, pearl, and gold beads falls beneath the magpie, ending in warm agate droplets that move gracefully with the wearer.
• A Gift from the Palace Museum: Produced by the Beijing Palace Museum Cultural Development Company, part of the Gifts from the Palace Museum line, and presented in a hardcover gift box with a velvet pouch and carrier bag.

Materials & Details

• Thickened 18K gold plating
• Natural mother-of-pearl (贝母) and red agate (红玛瑙)
• Faux pearl accents
• Hairpin length: approx. 19cm
• Presented in a hardcover gift box (approx. 7 x 21.5 x 3.5cm) with a velvet pouch and carrier bag

Care

Keep away from water, perfume, and prolonged sunlight. Store in a soft pouch or jewellery box when not in use. Wipe gently with a dry cloth after wear.