Silver comb embossed with two dragons guarding a gate. A myth exists that a carp would turn into a dragon the moment it passed the ‘Dragon gate’. This was a symbolic comparison with a scholar passing the very difficult Civil Service Examinations after which he could become a High Official. Also depicted are blossoming plum branches on either side which form the rebus ‘May the blossoms bring you the Five Blessings’ (meikai wufu). The five petals of the plum blossom represent Wealth, Health, Longevity, Love of Virtue and a Peaceful Death. This hairpin dates from the Republic Period (1912 – 1947). Width 11.8 cm. Height 5.5 cm.