Gentleman’s toilet case, Europe, 1837-1901
Inside the leather box are all the accessories needed by a Victorian gentleman during his personal hygiene regime, or ‘toilet’ as it was then known. The kit contains two hairbrushes, hair oil and a comb, two clothes brushes, a nail trimming knife, a mirror, and two razors. Also, a strop to sharpen the razors’ blades, a shaving brush, a toothbrush holder and a toothpowder box. (Toothpowder was a forerunner to toothpaste.)
Object number:
1973-533
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: hygiene
The science of health and how to maintain it. A condition or practice which promotes good health. The definition varies widely and differs across cultures.
Glossary: toilet accessory
Piece of equipment that is associated with the toilet or personal hygiene routine such as toothbrushes, hairbrushes, combs etc