Haar van de luitenant admiraals gebroeders J. & C. Evertsen, gesneuveld 1666 1838

This memorial, likely made shortly after 1666 by L.J. Lefèbre, is rendered entirely with hair. It commemorates Lieutenant Admirals J. & C. Evertsen. But note the material: not bronze, not stone, not paint. Hair. This choice immediately signals a departure from the traditional materials of memorialization. Hairwork was a popular craft during this period. The Victorians are especially well known for it, using the locks of loved ones to create mementos and keepsakes. The inherent qualities of hair – its texture, color, and ability to be shaped – lend themselves to intricate work. The labor involved in creating such a piece is considerable. Each strand must be carefully placed to form the image. This is not just a work of art; it's a work of devotion. The intimate connection between the material and the subject adds another layer of meaning. It transforms the piece into something deeply personal and emotionally resonant. By choosing hair as the primary medium, Lefèbre elevates a popular craft into a poignant tribute, collapsing the boundaries between art and craft. It prompts us to consider the value we place on different forms of making and the stories they tell.