Sentimental Hairwork Brooch
Date1837 - 1901
Object NameBrooch
Mediumbrass, human hair and glass
ClassificationsJewellery
DimensionsWidth: 3.4cm
Height: 2.4cm
Depth: 0.9cm
Height: 2.4cm
Depth: 0.9cm
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082479
About MeThis hollow brass rectangular brooch features a fluted edge and small engraved scroll border, which surrounds a glass covered, central reserve containing plaited brown human hair. There is a simple pin fastening on the back.The notion of keeping a physical memento of a person, dead or alive, is thousands of years old. Using a lock of hair in a remembrance piece has been popular for many centuries. However, pieces of jewellery containing intricate patterns made from hair began to appear during the 17th century.
The craft of hairwork jewellery really took off in the 19th century as the fashion for sentimental jewellery grew.
Hairwork was more commonly worn as a love gesture but could also be worn for mourning if the hair used was that of the deceased. Brooches like this one would normally feature a black enamel or jet border if is was for mourning. So it is likely that it was worn as a love gesture.
More About Me
Sentimental hair work jewellery flourished in the Victorian era to recognise love or to mourn the dead. The absence of a black enamel or jet border suggest that this one was for "love".
1837 - 1901
1840-1900
Late 19th century
Probably 19th century
19th Century
19th Century
Mid - late 19th century
1976-1977
c. 1870
