The maru mage was another style of bun made of waxed hair. The illustration shows a particularly huge example, worn by a high-class prostitute in the late 19th century.
A large comb called a bincho was placed into the back of the hair, to spread it out behind the ears. The bincho is not visible in this print.
This lady is resting on a special type of pillow, designed to preserve her hairdo.
The maru mage were originally worn only by courtesans, but later common women adopted the look as well. Even today, some Japanese brides wear a maru mage for their wedding photos.
