A pair of hair pins

The origins of such hair pins are likely based on Chinese and Spanish designs. These were popular until the mid-20th century as women used pins to secure their long locks in buns. Manila like other wealthy entrepots in Southeast Asia, was at the nexus of global trade. Historically, the Philippines was rich in natural resources such as gold and pearls. Early Spanish accounts note the impressive command of goldsmithing work by local goldsmiths. This long and distinguished tradition was observed during the colonial period of the Philippines, where trading hubs like Manila developed into important jewellery-making centres. These hair pins reportedly belonged to the donor’s great-grandmother, Lina Ortaliz Montilla (1868-1939)

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