Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
BE2005.1.1 |
Object Name |
Brooch |
Description |
An oval hair brooch surrounded with paste stones that look similar to diamonds. The hair is brown and is arranged in a circular fashion. The hair is covered by a bevelled oval of glass. The back of the brooch is curved. |
Year Range from |
1835 |
Year Range to |
1873 |
Dimensions |
H-2 W-4 L-4.5 cm |
History |
This brooch belonged to Matilda Lindsay (c.1802-1887), Captain James Harris's sister who lived in Perth, Scotland. Matilda Lindsay was a consistent correspondent with her brother and sent many care packages to Captain Harris and his family. In a list of jewellery she sent to Canada c. 1882, Matilda lists a hair locket with stones that look like diamonds surrounding it. The hair inside belonged to Margaret Patton (c.1800- 1879), Matilda and Captain Harris's sister. Hair jewellery's popularity began in the 17th century with the custom of distributing mourning rings with a lock of the deceased's hair. The trend grew and increased in variety in the 18th and 19th centuries. Queen Victoria is credited with the English fascination with hair jewellery as she often wore and gave hair jewellery throughout her life. By the mid-19th century, hair was no longer only used under glass in lockets or rings but made into entire pieces of jewellery. Hair was woven into intricate designs and pieces including bracelets, watch chains, earrings, etc. Hair jewellery was popular in France, England and the United States. |
People |
Lindsay, Matilda Patton, Margaret |