Butterfly hair pin made from pearl and metal. Made in 1875. Museum no. AP.92:3-1875

Butterfly Hair Pin, 1875

People have always been interested in representing the unusual shapes, patterns and textures of different creatures. Wearing accessories inspired by birds and insects has been popular for hundreds of years.

This beautiful butterfly hairpin was made in 1875. The fragile wings are made of pearl. They are made up of many different colours which shine when the butterfly catches the light.