Deep inside a richly decorated tomb in Luxor (ancient Thebes), archaeologists unearthed not just the remains of an architect named Kha and his wife Merit, but also a fascinating glimpse into their lives – through a remarkably preserved wig belonging to Merit. Discovered in 1906 by archaeologist Ernesto Schiaparelli, the dark-brown human hair wig nestled within a tall acacia wood box inscribed with Merit’s name, its glossy surface hinting at the fragrant oils that had been applied centuries earlier.
This discovery was more than just an ornate headpiece; it provided a window into the meticulous beauty rituals practiced by ancient Egyptian elites. The find also included meticulously crafted mummies adorned with jewels, Merit’s personal cosmetic chest brimming with grooming tools, and even her neatly arranged collection of hairpins, razors, and combs – artifacts that now reside in the Egyptian Museum in Turin, Italy.
The wig itself, likely worn over Merit’s shaved or closely cropped natural hair, showcased elaborate styling techniques. Intricate crimped waves formed by braiding wet hair and allowing it to dry were fashionable among women of this period during the mid-18th dynasty. As seen in numerous paintings and statues from the era, these hairstyles often complemented delicate flowers and ornate diadems, adding further flair to their already striking appearance.
Wigs weren’t mere fashion statements; they served practical purposes as well. For Egypt’s elite, wigs provided elaborate coiffures while shielding them from harsh sunlight and head lice – common nuisances in the era before modern hygiene practices. While some shaved their heads completely before donning a wig, others opted to wear their natural hair cropped short beneath the external adornment.
Beyond visual clues about Merit’s hairstyle, scientists utilized advanced analytical methods to glean even deeper insights into her beauty regimen. In 2016, researchers employed gas chromatography mass spectrometry on Merit’s wig and comb, revealing a fascinating cocktail of substances applied to maintain both style and scalp health. Plant oils likely smoothed and conditioned the hair, functioning much like ancient hair gel, while traces of cholesterol on one comb indicated its use during Merit’s lifetime for meticulous scalp management.
The presence of plant oil, gum, balsam, and beeswax embedded within the comb’s teeth confirmed that Merit diligently styled her hair before securing it with the wig, achieving a sleek, polished appearance favored by women of her status in ancient Egypt. The preserved remnants of Merit’s personal care routine not only illustrate the elaborate beauty standards of the period but also demonstrate how far scientific analysis can illuminate the intricacies of everyday life in antiquity.
Through artifacts like Merit’s meticulously preserved wig and comb, historians continue to unravel the intricate tapestry of daily life in ancient Egypt – revealing details about social customs, hygiene practices, and aesthetic ideals that have captivated generations since their discovery.
