Wig block 19th century. R. Hovenden & Sons millinery hat block

The spirit of Edwina Woodhead.

Late 19thC. Real Auburn hair wig, still attached to it's original, solid elm, manufacturing block. By R. Hovenden & Sons. 
Make a great ornament!?

Firmly in the category of Curios and Oddities. If I say so myself, it is just a little bit creepy.

R. Hovenden & Sons, London (1872 -1902), were leading wig manufacturers and barbers of their day, carrying the largest stock of real hair in the United Kingdom. 

Colour: Auburn, with a distinct ginger tinge in certain lights, makes the piece just that little more rare. We like rare.

We can only assume the wig for some mysterious reason, was never collected or remained unfinished?

Stamped: R. H. & Sons, London

Condition. The block, made from solid elm, is a working piece and shows obvious and sustained signs of use. The hair, now matted and scraggy. Generally got that air of dry, dusty, untouched antique. It is 100-150 years old.

Dimensions approx: H 23.5cm  W 15.5cm  Circumference: 56cm

• ID33889
• Business Name:The Rub Antique Company
• Contact: UK > Cheshire
  
  0161 928 4470
  07717411466
• Location: Cheshire > UK
• Category: Accessories
• Age: More than 50 years old