Innovation No. 46 of 77 in the book
The Barber Shop
Barbers practiced as a recognized, trained profession
- When
- c. 1400 BCE
- Dynasty
- 18th Dynasty
- Era
- New Kingdom
Barbering was a respected, trained profession in Egypt by around 1400 BCE, in the New Kingdom — some barbers grew wealthy enough to leave fine tombs.
They worked outdoors under shade trees, a public spot where clients waited their turn — the open-air ancestor of the neighborhood barber shop.
In a culture that prized a clean-shaven look and close-cropped or shaved heads, the barber was in constant demand.
The barber shop — chair, queue and gossip included — opened first in Egypt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the earliest archaeological evidence for the barber shop in ancient Egypt?
The earliest confirmed evidence dates to approximately 1400 BCE during Egypt's New Kingdom (18th Dynasty). Barbering was a respected, trained profession in Egypt by around 1400 BCE, in the New Kingdom — some barbers grew wealthy enough to leave fine tombs.
How did ancient Egyptians develop the barber shop, and what is its legacy?
They worked outdoors under shade trees, a public spot where clients waited their turn — the open-air ancestor of the neighborhood barber shop. They worked outdoors under shade trees, a public spot where clients waited their turn — the open-air ancestor of the neighborhood barber shop. The barber shop — chair, queue and gossip included — opened first in Egypt.