For those who feel as if they were born in the wrong era, The Quintessential Victorian is a place for you to indulge in all things Victorian. Fix a cup of tea, relax, and allow yourself to be transported to the most glorious era in history...

Monday, August 5, 2013

The Artistry of Hair Work

This week I will be posting on the art of hair work, a popular pastime in the Victorian era.
As creepy as this may sound I would bring to the attention of all the mom's out there that one of the first keepsakes from a child is usually a lock of hair:).

Ladies would weave hair collected from themselves, family and/or friends into wreaths or bouquets.

Some added beads, or if the piece were for mourning, a photo of the deceased.
Hair work is not always for mourning!
It was also used as love tokens.

The book pictured at the beginning of this post contains patterns that the ladies would use to create these beautiful masterpieces.

Most often the finished creation was housed in a shadow box frame.
Hair work could also be displayed beneath a glass dome.

Many a Victorian lady spent evenings in the parlor working on hair work.
However, with the outbreak of the civil war this pastime went by the wayside inn this country as most women had to take over the duties of men who were off fighting in the war thus eliminating the time to partake in such activities.

For those interested in learning more about hair work in jewelry the book by Jeannine Bell is a must!
It provides information and photos about hair jewelry as well as tips for collecting this amazing art form.
 
Blessings,
 
Kim

1 comment:

  1. Hi Kim,
    I LOVE hair work pieces! I only have one little shadow box piece along with a watch chain made of human hair. Thanks for sharing the history of hair art with us.
    Gina

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