Symbolism of moustaches

Moustache Symbolism 

During my initial research on moustaches, I picked up on a few key properties of their roles throughout history. I think that identifying the symbolism of moustaches will help me explore directions I can approach in my poster series, and what thematics to focus on. 

Association with Artists and Revolutionaries 

Charles Dickens, a somewhat recognised revolutionary, who challenged the Victorian status quo in his writings.  In a sense, his moustache can be regarded as untamed/wild, thus contributing the initial Victorian conception deeming that moustaches were uncouth and belonged to those on the fringes of society, e.g. artists.

War and Masculinity 

There was a change of heart in the Victorian perspective on moustaches, as following 1860, moustaches gained the reputation of representing an 'aggressive' soldier, masculinity and strength. It was enforced (1860-1916) that all soldiers had to have moustaches for this reason. This concept of strength and masculinity can be traced back to the first recording of the moustache in Ancient Babylonia, as a portrait of a warrior sporting a moustache was discovered. Furthermore, the association of moustaches with masculinity can be seen not only in the western world, as in Indian cultures, bare faces are deemed 'juvenile and unmanly'. 

Comedy 

Charlie Chaplin was famous for sporting a 'toothbrush' moustache, and stated in an interview (1933) that it added a comical appearance to his character and was small enough so he could still show expression. Additionally, the moustache was actually fake, and he stuck it on solely for the character. 

Cinema 

The 1950s' golden age of cinema saw the birth of the 'pencil' moustache, which gained the reputation of a suave, dapper man. Errol Flynn may be recognised as sparking this trend in Hollywood, as it shaped the 50's atypical 'handsome' man. 

Wealth and Royalty 

In Ancient Egypt, false beards and facial hair (known as postiches) were sported by Kings and Queens as a symbol of sovereignty. Additionally, the wealthy also plaited their beards with gold thread to show wealth. 

Women and Moustaches 

Princess Qajar 

Princess Qajar ruled Persia from 1848 to 1896, and was considered an icon of beauty in 19th century Persia due to her thick monobrow and moustache. Unlike many princesses at the time, apparently her farther trusted her and allowed her to go against tradition by learning to play the piano and becoming a photographer. In a sense, this concept of female beauty revolutionised what we consider to be the atypical beauty of women today. 

Frida Kahlo

Regarded as one of the most famous feminist icons, Frida Kahlo celebrated her facial hair within her self portraits, rejecting stereotypes about what is and what isn't attractive. 

“I am my own muse. The subject I know best. The subject I want to know better”