Hair: Untold Stories
There is more to hair than washing, combing and cutting. It is an extraordinary fibre with a range of unexpected possibilities.
Hair Untold Stories Exhibition - Blond Hair Dress, Close Up (2021) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
From jewellery and dresses to armour and environmental protection, hair is a durable, adsorbent and flexible material.
Hair's high nitrogen levels mean it can be used in compost, and it's adsorbent nature means it can mop up oil spills.
It's also renewable, making it an ideal eco-friendly material.
Hair Untold Stories Exhibition - Hair Shop Installation (2021) by Connie ChurcherHorniman Museum and Gardens
This hair shop installation by Korantema Anyimadu explores the experiences of Black women and non-binary people with their hair in the UK.
It discusses health, nostalgia, business, identity and creativity.
Horsehair Pot (0) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
Horsehair Pot, Navajo, Southwestern USA
This is a globular slip cast water pot.
Horsetail hair is applied to the sides of the pot, at the end of firing. The clay's heat burns the hair and creates these distinctive patterns.
Bridal Hat (0) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
Bridal Headdress, Bulgaria
This beaded headdress would have traditionally been worn by a bride. The headdress has several coins, to signify the bride's family's wealth.
By tucking her hair under the headdress the bride marks her obligation to conceal her hair after marriage from anyone but her husband.
Yao Priest's Hat (1850) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
Yao Priest's Hat, China
This is a Yao priest's hat from south western China. It is made of cloth woven from human hair.
Using hair heightened the priest's status and helped sanctify rituals.
Tortoiseshell Comb (0) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
Tortoiseshell Comb, Sri Lanka
A Tortoise shell comb from South Asia, Sri Lanka. This hair ornament dates back to the 19th century.
Hair Untold Stories Exhibition - Combs (2021) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
Hair: Untold Stories was curated in partnership with Emeritus Professor of Anthropology Emma Tarlo and Goldsmiths, University of London.
The lead curator was Dr Sarah Byrne.
Hair Untold Stories Exhibition - A Hair Shop Tour, Relaxers (2021) by Horniman Museum & GardensHorniman Museum and Gardens
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