There is a lot of knowledge surrounding ancient Egyptian wigs, mostly due to the fact that some of these wigs and hairpieces have stood the test of time and even found their way into present-day museums! “These wigs of the ancient Egyptians are the oldest existing wigs in the world and it is important that the fullest details of their method of manufacture should be ascertained and published” states J. Stevens Cox, a wig constructor who has examined actual ancient wigs.
The wigs the Egyptians crafted were not as realistic as the wigs made today, but they did have a lot in common with the modern wig. Both wigs feature some sort of cap construction that the hair or fiber is attached to, and the best wigs during both time periods were created using real human hair.
While human hair was the best and highest grade material the Egyptians used for wig-making, other materials Egyptians may have used to make wigs with during this time included palm leaves, grass and sheep’s wool. Less wealthy Ancient Egyptians opted for less expensive and labor-intensive options, like hair extensions. These hair extensions were braided into their natural hair for a thicker, fuller appearance. Egyptians were often buried with their hair extensions and wigs, hoping to have beautiful, luscious locks in the afterlife. Mummified ancient Egyptians have been found wearing these different forms of false hair, proving that great hair is always in style! Other ancient civilizations that are believed to have worn wigs include the Assyrians, Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans.
Did you know that wigs could be traced all the way back to ancient times?
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