Thread: Brush collectors

Originally Posted by honedright

First off, yes these are "lather" brushes as they were labeled in old barber catalogs. They tended to be longer and narrower than the shaving brushes we are used to today.

According to Chris Jones' barber shop collector's book, old shaving brush values can range from $5.00 to $10.00 for synthetic handle styles, and $25.00+ for pre-1900 natural handled models. Carved ivory, silver, pearl, or stag could be valued higher. Value is also determined by amount of remaining bristles, which in this case would be complete.

Mr. Jones' book is from 1999, so values may have increased somewhat. But this should give you a starting point.

Your brushes are most likely post-1900.


Also, the bristles on these look like what was called "french bristles" in the old catalogs. Exactly what "french bristles" is, I do not know. The preferred bristle then, as today, was badger. (Edit: did a little web research and best I can tell, "french" bristle is a certain grade of boar bristle.)


Scott

Thanks for the info

Regarding the old style of longer bristles ,I believe that is why the old barber manuals suggested that the user actually hold the bristles somewhat down from the handle.
I believe that was how they provided support for the bristles during lather making and brushing it on the face. That would reduce a mopping effect. I doubt that many people practice this technique today. I don't know. Mike B

Great information. I love learning new stuff!!!!

Thanks Scott.

Lynn

Older, longer bristled brushes were not held by the handle. They were held at he base of the brush. These brushes are prime examples of why that would be effective. That is also much like the Charles Roberts (Method Shaving) method is recommended. Personally, I prefer less loft and more density in my brushes.]

RT