Des Cheveux et des Poils
The Museum of Decorative Arts presents an exhibition dedicated to hair and body hair in the Western world. This original project, curated by Denis Bruna, chief curator in the fashion and textile department, continues the exploration of fashion and the representation of the body. After “The Mechanics of Below” (2013), “Proper Dress Required!” (2017) and “Walk and Gait” (2019), “Hair and Body Hair” shows how hairstyle and the arrangement of human hair have been involved for centuries in the construction of appearances.
Through more than 600 works, from the 15th century to the present day, we explore the themes inherent in the history of hairdressing, but also questions related to facial and body hair. The professions and know-how of yesterday and today are highlighted with their emblematic figures: Léonard Autier (Marie-Antoinette’s favorite hairdresser), Monsieur Antoine, the Carita sisters, Alexandre de Paris and more recently the studio hairdressers.
Big names in contemporary fashion such as Alexander McQueen, Martin Margiela or Josephus Thimister are also present with their spectacular creations made from this singular material that is hair.
