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Hairstyles form part of our shared experience as diverse communities and when brought under the gaze of others, head and facial hair become markers of identity, gender and culture.

In archival photography, hair also functions as a kind of visual time stamp. If you've ever wondered when a photo was taken? Well, take a look at the hair! These photos are taken from the collection of Public Record Office Victoria. Melbourne, Australia, and were showcased in a 2016 exhibition at the Victorian Archives Centre. To view on mobile or directly on the Google Cultural Institute's website try viewing it here 

 

Material in the Public Record Office Victoria archival collection contains words and descriptions that reflect attitudes and government policies at different times which may be insensitive and upsetting

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware the collection and website may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.

PROV provides advice to researchers wishing to access, publish or re-use records about Aboriginal Peoples