The Hair-Style Archaeologist: Unraveling the Secrets of Ancient Roman Coiffures
Janet Stephens: The Superhero of the Coiffe
Janet Stephens is not your average hairdresser. By day, she wields scissors and combs to create modern hairstyles. But by night, she transforms into a “hair-style archaeologist,” delving into the annals of history to recreate the intricate coiffures of ancient Rome.
Recreating Ancient Hairstyles: A Labor of Love
Stephens’ passion for ancient hairstyles began with a simple question: “How did Roman women achieve those gravity-defying curls, bumps, and buns?” Determined to find the answer, she embarked on a journey of meticulous research and experimentation.
Her YouTube channel, a treasure trove of ancient hair artistry, showcases her recreations of iconic hairstyles, from the elaborate braids of Empress Plotina to the enigmatic coin hair of Cleopatra. Each video is a testament to her dedication and the transformative power of hair.
The Wig Theory Debunked
For centuries, historians have assumed that the elaborate hairstyles depicted in ancient Roman art were achieved with wigs. However, Stephens’ research has challenged this long-held belief. Through countless hours of trial and error, she discovered that these hairstyles were meticulously crafted using braids, needles, and thread.
The Secrets of Roman Hairdressing
Stephens’ groundbreaking research has shed new light on the techniques and tools used by ancient Roman hairdressers. In her scientific publications, she describes the challenges of recreating these hairstyles and provides detailed descriptions of the pins, needles, and other implements that were essential to the process.
One of Stephens’ most significant discoveries was the true meaning of the Latin term “acus” in the context of hairdressing. Traditionally translated as “hairpin,” Stephens argues that it more accurately refers to a “needle and thread.” This realization was crucial to understanding how Roman women achieved their intricate hairstyles.
The Importance of Stitching
Stitching played a vital role in the construction of ancient Roman hairstyles. Stephens’ experiments revealed that braids and other hair elements were sewn together to create the desired shapes and volume. This technique allowed Roman women to defy gravity and achieve the elaborate coiffures that have fascinated historians for centuries.
Recognition from the Academic World
Stephens’ expertise has not gone unnoticed in the academic community. John Humphrey, editor of the Journal of Roman Archaeology, praised her work as “a very serious piece of experimental archaeology” that could only have been written by someone with both hairdressing and scholarly experience.
A Legacy of Hair-Style Archaeology
Janet Stephens’ pioneering work has not only expanded our understanding of ancient Roman hairstyles but has also demonstrated the value of experimental archaeology in historical research. Her dedication to recreating these hairstyles has brought the past to life and inspired a new generation of hair-style enthusiasts.
As Stephens continues her research, we can eagerly anticipate further revelations about the secrets of ancient hairdressing and the remarkable ingenuity of our ancestors.
