This unusual piece of folk art made from human hair is held by the Dannevirke Gallery of History. In the 19th century poor Scandinavian women used hair as a material for craft work. This piece was made in New Zealand. The letters, which are name initials, commemorate Scandinavian immigrants Bernt Johannesen and Elisabet Engebretsdatter and their children. The central cross is probably a Christian symbol, while the remainder of the decoration looks like trees, branches and leaves.
Courtesy of the Dannevirke Gallery of History
Using this item
Te Ara – The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
by Janine Faulknor
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