These implements of torture hail from 20's/40's France and were used by men
and women alike to curl and wave hair or moustaches. They were gruesomely
heated up in the flame of a stove or over coals and even in an open fire, then
applied to the hair, they worked well, but what condition they left the hair in
I dread to think, they also led to skin injuries.
The condition is consistent with their great age and use, rust and
discolouration throughout. The leather case in in pretty good shape. The
maker's markings read, "MARCEL DEPOSE - ACIER B & ACIER D", the A & D must
refer to their differing sizes, with D being slightly longer and thicker in the
barrel.
These pieces of hairdressing history would make a great item of decor in a
barber shop or hair salon or as a film prop, very definitely not for practical
use today. Having said that, I have seen Japanese Maiko and Geishas just
recently, having their incredible hairstyles styled with these exact tools
heated in a flame and used directly on the hair!
27cm and 28.5cm long.