Raising Hair

A universal experience, hair has often formed a fundamental part of human self-expression and identity. But how can we see changes in hairdressing and styling throughout history and how can experimental reconstruction help us start creating a picture of the people of the past? Our guests Janet Stephens and Dorothee Olthof join us on this month’s Finally Friday to discuss their experiences understanding ancient hairdressing. Phoebe Baker is the host of this show.

Janet is a professional hairdresser and experimental archaeologist specializing in the recreation of ancient Roman, Greek and other archaic hairstyles. She uses period appropriate tools and techniques and live models. She studies surviving art works, portraiture, artifacts, and primary sources to understand the mechanics and role of ancient hair care and grooming in historical, social and cultural context.

Dorothee studied Prehistory at Leiden University and got her master's degree there. After a few years of excavating she turned her attention to archaeology & education. First as a prehistoric inhabitant of Archeon and coordinator of the prehistoric part there, from 2007 onwards with her own company for archaeology & education, PRAE. A wide range of activities keep her busy and happy.