Fusaibinagii

A pair of fusaibinagii on display at the Fujukan Museum, University of the Ryukyus
  • Other Names: 鎖指輪 (kusaimi ibi nagii)
  • Okinawan: 房指輪 (fusa ibi nagii)

Fusaibinagii, also known as kusaimi ibinagii, are a ceremonial type of jewelry traditionally worn by Okinawan women the day after their marriage. Worn on the middle finger of each hand as rings, they consist of three silver rings linked by short chains to seven small silver objects, with specific symbolic meanings.

The fusaibinagii is worn when the new bride returns to her family on the day after the marriage, a practice known as hirumudui (J: hiru modori). They are also frequently worn in Ryukyuan dance and kumi udui theater, when appropriate for a character or scene.

The seven objects are typically:

  • A fish - representing that the new couple should always have enough to eat
  • A torch or lantern - representing prayers and respect for the ancestors
  • A pomegranate - for the peace and prosperity of the couple's descendants
  • A folding fan - for luck or fortune
  • A flower - that the couple's life should be colorful
  • A butterfly - a messenger from Heaven
  • A leaf - that the couple should always have enough to wear

References

  • Gallery labels, Fujukan Museum, University of the Ryukyus.[1]