Ancient Roman bronze openwork tweezers

2nd - 3rd century AD

€ 75.00 VAT margin scheme

Article code: 23-44011
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The practice of removing unwanted hair was popular among the ancient Romans for aesthetical reasons, cleanliness and practical purposes (susceptibility to lice). The philosopher Seneca even wrote of a professional hair-plucker drumming up business in the public baths.

Cleanliness and style were status symbols for the Romans. The removal of body hair, including armpit hair, was not just for aesthetics but also a marker of social status and cultural identity, differentiating 'civilized' Romans from 'barbarians'.

Unkempt or unruly hair, as well as bad hygiene, was said to reflect poorly on an individual’s inner state.

The tools that Romans used to keep their bodies hair-free look much like modern tweezers.

Tweezers were only a part of the typical Roman grooming utensils. A comb, shaving knife, nail cleaner, ear scoop and a strigil were also part of the Roman extensive grooming rituals.