Hair Wreath: A Tangible Thread of Memory
Hair Wreath
1974.56.1
1847
Material: Human hair, beads, ribbons
Description
Hair art, while often associated with mourning, also served as a way to celebrate family lineage or commemorate close friendships. A family hair wreath, like this one, functioned much like a family tree, revealing relationships and history through its intricate design.
During the Victorian era, hair art gained popularity as a response to loss, particularly after the death of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband, and the high death toll following the Civil War in the United States.
This particular hair wreath features an open-ended design at the top, symbolizing the deceased’s ascent to Heaven. The inclusion of hair in various colors – brown, red, gray, and blonde &ndash suggests it was created over time, with pieces added as more family members passed away, transforming it into a unified object of mourning and remembrance.
Fun Fact!
Hair wreaths with diverse colors can also represent family trees, blending themes of mourning and lineage. Beyond wreaths, hair was often used to craft brooches, earrings, and bracelets, cherished as mementos of loved ones.