This pair of white jade hairpins is carved in the shape of phoenixes. The phoenixes heads, wings and tails are covered with thin sheets of gilt metal in the shape of the herbs of eternal youth and topped with cloisonné, quivering decorations, as well as glass beads and pearls. As part of a set of hairpins used for creating great ceremonial hairstyles, these hairpins were stuck into the two sides of the frontal part of the hair, with the phoenix heads facing forward. This pair of phoenix hairpins is recognized as the most exquisite example of surviving hairpins found in Korea.

A phoenix is a mythical bird that only appears in a peaceful world ruled by a sage king. Overall it resembles a cock, has feathers in five colors and cries in five modulations of sounds. Since the bird possesses good characteristics of eight animals and was believed to have acquired all the virtues necessary for a king, it became an emblem of royal status and found in various court objects such as documents, cases, robes, palanquins, etc.. It was also a popular decorative motif for women’s dress and hairpins.