Princess Chichibu’s Honeysuckle Tiara
The Princess Chichibu Honeysuckle Tiara, frequently cited in gemological records as the Japanese Honeysuckle Tiara, is recognized as one of the most structurally refined ornaments within the Imperial Japanese collection. In contrast to the rigid, monumental designs that characterized the late 19th-century Meiji era, this piece embodies the more fluid, naturalistic aesthetics of the late 1920s. It was produced as a nuptial gift for Setsuko Matsudaira (later Princess Chichibu) for her 1928 marriage to Prince Chichibu, the second son of Emperor Taisho.
Architectural Motif and Craftsmanship
While the Japanese monarchy traditionally prioritizes the chrysanthemum motif, this diadem is distinguished by its use of the anthemion, or honeysuckle design, a classical botanical pattern. Produced by the primary jewelry workshop serving the Imperial Household, the tiara is crafted entirely from platinum and encrusted with brilliant-cut diamonds.
The structure is defined by a rhythmic arrangement of diamond loops and scrolls. The focal point features a series of graduated, heart-shaped honeysuckle elements that ascend toward a central peak, providing a silhouette that is both majestic and lightweight. This tiara was originally the centerpiece of a comprehensive parure that included a diamond necklace and a brooch. This "all-white" composition utilizing only diamonds and platinum adheres to the strict Japanese court protocol for formal state attire.
Historical Provenance and Global Representation
Princess Chichibu, often referred to as the "English Rose" of the Imperial family due to her early life and education in the United Kingdom and the United States, utilized the diadem as her primary ceremonial ornament for several decades.
A significant moment in the jewel's history occurred in 1937, when the Princess wore the tiara to the coronation of King George VI in London. Representing the Emperor alongside her husband, she paired the Western-style diamond headpiece with a traditional manteau de cour, creating a definitive visual of pre-war Japanese royalty on the international stage. She continued to feature the ornament in her official duties throughout the Showa era, including New Year’s receptions and state banquets.
Transition and Modern Usage
Upon the death of Princess Chichibu in 1995, the diadem returned to the main branch of the Imperial family. After a period of dormancy, the piece was adopted by Empress Michiko. In her later years, the Empress favored the Honeysuckle Tiara over heavier historical crowns, such as the Meiji Scroll Tiara, due to its ergonomic platinum frame and manageable vertical profile. Its lighter construction allowed for continued ceremonial use during state visits and audiences with foreign heads of government.
Currently, the ornament remains a significant asset of the Chrysanthemum Throne. While the present Empress, Masako, has primarily utilized the Imperial Star Tiara for high-ranking functions, the Honeysuckle Tiara is maintained within the imperial archives as a functional heirloom. It stands as a material link between the internationalism of the early 20th-century court and the contemporary requirements of the modern Japanese monarchy.
