Sentimental Brooch for Hairwork
Date1837 - 1901
Object NameBrooch
Mediumbrass and glass
ClassificationsJewellery
DimensionsWidth: 3cm
Height: 2.2cm
Depth: 0.8cm
Height: 2.2cm
Depth: 0.8cm
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082480
About MeThis hollow brass rectangular brooch features a decorative scroll border, which surrounds an empty, glass covered, central reserve, which would have contained plaited 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.
1837 - 1901
1840-1900
Late 19th century
19th Century
c. 1870
Mid - late 19th century
1976-1977
Probably 19th century
19th Century
