A History of Hairwork, Part 1: Introduction

Originally published in its entirity on Art of Mourning, the article ‘An Overview of the History and Industry of Hairwork’ is republished in bite-sized instalments so you can enjoy the fine details of this fascinating subject. Read below and follow the links for the elaboration and discussion on this wonderful and fascinating subject that dominated early-modern fashion and culture:

Jewellery and hair are the ideal combination for the perfect sentimental gift. The individuality of the jewel combined with something so personal as a lock of hair is a token of love and affection that the wearer can never forget or overlook.

Historically, the idea of giving hair as a gift can date to the prehistoric. Locks of hair have been treasured as sentimental objects for as long as there have been organised burials. For the purpose of this article, the focus will remain upon the period dating from the 16th century onwards and the evolution of hairwork in jewellery.

Popularity of hair in jewellery has risen and fallen since the 18th century, moving from a strong industry to virtually nothing at all. The sentiment has become lost over time, particularly in the 20th century where it has left mainstream awareness almost entirely. Keeping the hair of a loved one, particularly the deceased, is not uncommon even today, with lockets being produced to keep the lock of hair.

In part two, I will go further in depth to the custom of giving hair to a loved one and the social climate of the times.

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> Part 12
> Part 13