3-078-153 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

A Japanese pillow, 1890. 'The Illustrations of Japanese habits and manners, with which we have been furnished by Mr. Charles J. S. Makin, a traveller and amateur photographer, are accompanied with an explanatory comment; and the following notes on the fashion of dress, so far as it concerns the arrangement of the hair of the head, will help to show the reason for what seems an uncomfortable way of going to bed at night..."The headdress is a most elaborate affair, built on a foundation of cardboard, which is blackened; the hair, being passed over it, is then smoothed down and well oiled, and into it they put flowers, combs, fancy pins, and other small articles, intended to heighten their personal attractions. The result is frequently an artistic triumph. It is a tedious process, and perhaps for this reason habit has taught them to sleep without soft pillows; instead of which they use a round piece of wood, like a rolling-pin, about eight inches long, supported on two wooden feet, and with a hollow for the neck to lie in; so by these means the ladies are able to leave their hair untouched for several days, as at night it does not become at all disarranged; and for that consideration, of course, they can reconcile themselves to its use'. From "Illustrated London News", 1890.