Art and Jewelry Made from Human Hair

Art and Jewelry Made from Human Hair<br /><br />Hair is at once the most delicate and lasting of our materials, and survives us, like love. It is so light, so gentle, so escaping from the idea of death, that with a lock of hair belonging to a child or friend, we may almost look up to heaven and compare notes with the angelic nature may almost say, I have a piece of thee here, not unworthy of thy being now. The Godeys Ladys Book of May 1855<br /><br />Showcased in a small town salon against dark paneled walls and ancient bonnet dryers; a myriad of antique hair appliances offer a constant source of conversation for the loyal patrons. The focal point, a large Victorian flowered wreath, catches the attention of almost every customer. The wreath is beautiful and intricate. It is also made entirely of human hair.<br /><br />Hair art was common throughout the Victorian era. Complex wreaths, simple lockets, elaborate bracelets, toothpick holders, earrings and every other manner of decoration were made from hair. Hair art was used for a variety of functions from recording family history to tokens of affection exchanged between lovers. Naturally, hair art also became a popular means to memorialize loved ones who had passed on. Mourning jewelry created with hair was intensely popular because it did not violate the strict code of conduct Victorian society imposed upon the conduct and dress of grieving persons. In this capacity hair art is best remembered. The hair of individuals and sometimes entire families can still be found intricately crafted and solemnly tucked behind glass frames or behind jewelers cases at antique stores.<br /><br />Similar to the virtual memorial, hair art offered people a way to connect with the memories of those they loved. Pieces were lovingly and painstakingly crafted. Family members themselves constructed their own talismans of solace, hiring a jeweler to add only the final touches such as pin backs and clasps. Commercial hair weavers created ready made and custom pieces for the population. There is a beautiful variety in the construction, design, and color of hair art pieces. This makes hair art and hair jewelry very collectible.<br /><br />The curious can learn more about hair art at Leilas Hair Museum, which claims to be the only museum of its kind in the world. It currently houses a collection of over two thousand pieces. For the modern collector hair art offers a unique connection with the past. Pieces can be found online on popular auction sites or at antique stores like Morning Glory Antiques. There are still works of hair art being produced today. The Victorian Hair Artists Guild offer information about hair art and contact details for individual artists. Commissioned pieces are generally quite expensive due to the amount of time involved in their creation.<br /><br />Funeral customs have changed over the last century, but the feelings of loss experienced by people today are no less poignant. The inspiration to create in honor of a loved one is almost universal. It is no wonder why families in the past turned to hair art as a means of preservation for their most precious of memories. These relics give all of us an opportunity to view a beautiful and touching piece of our countrys history.<br /><br />Published by Jamie Sue Austin<br /><br />Im the mother of an awesome six year old boy with autism. I try to focus part of my creative efforts on finding and making learning material for autistic children. You can find those resources and others a. View profile<br /><br />Is Facial Jewelry and Body Art Really that Offensive? Recently the wifes new employer asked her to remove her nose ring.<br /><br />Related ContentResearching Antique JewelryAn Insiders Guide to Fashion JewelryThe Fine Art of Protein and Moisture Balancing for Black Hair CareBirmingham, Alabamas Greatest Hair SalonTips on Successfully Finding and Reselling Antique JewelryThe Best Hair Braiding Salons in Irvington NJPop Art Craft Coffee Mug Project for KidsMourning jewelry created with hair was intensely popular because it did not violate the strict code of conduct Victorian society imposed upon the conduct and dress of grieving persons.