Pin Item Number: 2813/50 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

A gold coloured, metal straight pin with a bird finial depicted in profile, looking back over its wing. The head of the bird contains a tuft and its tail is long. A zigzag incised line design has been applied to the neck, wing, and tail of the bird. This zigzag design continues down the shaft. The neck of the shaft displays a protrusion on one side with a circular hole in the middle of it.

History Of Use

A tupu is a pin that was used by women in several Central and South American countries to secure wrapped dresses and shawls. They were often considered family heirlooms and passed down from mother to daughter. Tupus were worn with traditional wool clothing, but they are not normally used with clothing made from synthetic materials.