Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
BE2005.4.77 |
Object Name |
Jar, Cosmetic |
Description |
A circular glass jar with a silver press-on lid. The base of the jar measures 3.8 cm in diameter with a 16-pointed starburst pattern. The side of the jar is decorated with 8 large rounded tip petal shapes alternating with 8 groupings of 3 narrow pointed tip petal shapes. Between the narrow petal shapes, there are columns of tiny diamond-like shapes: about 18 on each column. The shoulder, neck and top rim are smooth and undecorated. The lid is silver plated and rolls up at the bottom rim. It has a circular bead pattern on the top and has the initial "N" engraved in fancy script on the centre top. A round feather stuffed cushion with a small round carved handle at the top centre. Ten small bundles of sandy blood human hair is found inside the jar. |
Year Range from |
1890 |
Year Range to |
1910 |
Dimensions |
H-7 W-6.5 L-6.5 cm |
History |
This cosmetic jar originally belonged to Naomi Harris of Benares House. It was left to her niece, Dora Sayers, after her passing in 1968. According to the donor the hair may have been collected by Naomi and the hair could have come from Mary Harris. At various times during the 20th century women collected their hair brushings to make a cover 'rats' used for foundations under large hairdos. This was common, especially in the early 1940s and the 'beehive' period (1965-1970). |
People |
Harris, Naomi Caro, Dora Sayers Harris, Mary |