Jiang Shan Wei Pin

When actress Wu Jinyan (吴谨言) appeared in the historical drama Jiang Shan Wei Pin (江山为聘) with a headpiece adorned with a row of shimmering golden flowers, audiences were captivated. Each delicate bloom trembled with her movements, sparking lively debates online. Many wondered if such opulent accessories were truly part of ancient attire or merely artistic exaggeration. This curiosity opens a window into the rich tapestry of historical Chinese fashion, where hair ornaments were not just decorative but carried deep cultural weight. The dazzling display in the series invites a closer look at how these items reflected societal values and personal identity across different eras. Ancient Beginnings The use of floral gold decorations in hair, known as Dian (钿, gold flower ornament), dates back to the Wei (魏) and Jin (晋) periods. During this time, artisans began crafting thin gold sheets into flower shapes, which were then attached to hairpins or directly into hairstyles. These items gained prominence as symbols of status and beauty, evolving through subsequent dynasties. In the Tang (唐) era, Dian became highly popular, with intricate openwork designs that showcased advanced metalworking skills. Archaeological finds from Tang tombs include numerous gold flower pieces, confirming their widespread use among…