A Curling Iron
Subject
Tools and Equipment
Title
A Curling Iron
Date
ca. 1870 - 1930
Description
Human's fascination and obsession with curls as symbols of divinity is long recorded in history and across a range of ancient cultures. An important aspect of beauty and prestige, depictions in paintings and representations of gods and goddesses illustrate a wholesome and divine creature topped with waves and curls that cascade over the shoulders.
This hinged hair curler is designed with wood handles to prevent burns while handling, with a metal prong around which the hair would be wrapped on one side, and a clamp to secure the hair on the other. A carved plant pattern decorates both handles and tongs. The tongs would be heated at a stove. Care would be taken to prevent the hair from being scorched by the heat of the metal.
While the original inventor of the curling iron remains unknown, one of the first patents for the modern improvement of the ancient design was awarded to Sir Hiram Maxim on August 21, 1866. Ultimately the invention of electricity completely revolutionized the hair curling industry. By the mid-20th century, the electric hair curler created a greater range of users, especially for individuals doing their own hair within the home.
This hinged hair curler is designed with wood handles to prevent burns while handling, with a metal prong around which the hair would be wrapped on one side, and a clamp to secure the hair on the other. A carved plant pattern decorates both handles and tongs. The tongs would be heated at a stove. Care would be taken to prevent the hair from being scorched by the heat of the metal.
While the original inventor of the curling iron remains unknown, one of the first patents for the modern improvement of the ancient design was awarded to Sir Hiram Maxim on August 21, 1866. Ultimately the invention of electricity completely revolutionized the hair curling industry. By the mid-20th century, the electric hair curler created a greater range of users, especially for individuals doing their own hair within the home.
Source
Donor: Whitlock Collection
Identifier
URI 1965.05.02
Contributor
Safiatu Dallas
Collection
Citation
“A Curling Iron,” Historic Textile and Costume Collection, accessed May 2, 2024, https://uritextilecollection.omeka.net/items/show/292.