Eye make-up is much more than a simple aesthetic gesture. Through the ages and across civilizations, it has conveyed cultural, religious and social messages. From the mysterious kohls of the Egyptians to today's colourful palettes, let's delve into the fascinating history of eye make-up.
Ancient Egypt: protection and prestige
One of the earliest documented uses of eye make-up dates back to ancient Egypt, over 4,000 years ago. The Egyptians applied kohl, a powder composed of galena and malachite, around their eyes. Beyond aesthetics, this practice had spiritual and medical significance: it protected against the evil eye and eye infections, while reducing the glare of the scorching desert sun. Men and women of all social classes sported these distinctive features, like the famous Cleopatra.
Asia and the Middle East: Tradition and mysticism
In many Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, eye make-up is deeply rooted in tradition. Kajal, a cousin of kohl, has been used for centuries in India, not only to enhance the eyes, but also to ward off evil spirits. In certain Arab traditions, women apply kohl to their children as soon as they are born, to strengthen their eyes and give them spiritual protection.
Medieval Europe and the Renaissance: from sobriety to extravagance
In medieval Europe, make-up was often perceived as immoral, particularly by the Church. Aristocratic women preferred natural looks, accentuating their pale complexions rather than their eyes. However, the Renaissance saw a return of oriental influences, and some nobility discreetly used blush to sublimate their eyes.
The 20th century: Revolution and self-expression
The twentieth century was a period of radical transformation for eye make-up. In the 1920s, the smokey style popularized by silent film actresses like Clara Bow embodied a bold new femininity. The '60s, with the iconic Twiggy, introduced graphic eyeliner and exaggerated lash make-up. Then the 80s and 90s saw the explosion of bright colors and grunge, where make-up became a true expression of identity.
Modern trends: between tradition and innovation
Today, eye make-up oscillates between nostalgia and innovation. Techniques inspired by the past, such as the “fox eye” reminiscent of the stretched Egyptian gaze, sit alongside futuristic styles using holographic pigments and 3D effects. With the rise of social networks and online tutorials, everyone can express their creativity, making eye make-up more accessible and diverse than ever.
A timeless art
From ancient rituals to ephemeral trends, eye make-up continues to be a powerful means of cultural and personal expression. From Cleopatra to today's beauty influencers, the art of sublimating the gaze spans the centuries, proving that our eyes are, more than ever, the mirror of our history and individuality.
