Lillian Wong’s Makeup Station , Unknown
Makeup

This is Lillian Ho Wong’s “boudoir” with a perfume bottle and a container for powder. In the Edwardian era (1901-1910), women desired a pale complexion and a more natural appearance. The purpose of women’s makeup was to emphasize youthful beauty that nobody would know that they were wearing makeup. It was common to apply powder on one’s face to create a lighter skin tone, as pale skin symbolizes a high social status associated with the privilege of indoor life and leisure time. In addition, Edwardian women applied rough powder to their cheeks, forehead, and lips to enhance liveliness and softness. These makeup aesthetics are shown through Lillian’s painted photograph, featuring light rough on her cheeks and lips. Lillian’s makeup practices continued well into her later life, and makeup became a crucial part of her self-expression.

Exhibited by:

Violet Wolfe

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