Who Invented Eye Shadow?
The history of cosmetics, particularly eye shadow, can be traced to ancient times. No one person invented eye shadow; rather, the cosmetic evolved from a number of civilizations and cultural purposes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Ancient Egypt
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Around 10,000 B.C., Egyptians began using a cosmetic stick known as "kohl" around their eyes. Both males and females used these early eye shadows as it was believed to protect the skin, improve vision and fight infection.
Ancient Greece
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During the 8th and 7th centuries B.C., Greek traders peddled eye shadow called "fucus" both within the borders of their civilization and abroad. The brightly colored blues and greens were high fashion during this time period, and their sale became one of the cornerstones of the Greek economy.
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Ancient Rome
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Introduced to cosmetics by the Greeks and Egyptians as their empire grew, the materialistic Romans coveted the precious eye shadows imported from abroad. Their reverence for the cosmetics was such that eventually they were given a religious purpose, believed to ward off evil spirits.
India
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Around the 5th century in India, the use of henna to decorate the body, including around the hands, feet and eyes began. Henna played a role as decorative accoutrement for religious services and led to the use of imported Egyptian kohl shortly after.
Iberia
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In Iberia in the 10th century, physician Abulcasis wrote a lengthy treatise about various areas of medicine. An entire volume was dedicated to the use of eye shadows and other cosmetics, which he credited for the prevention of disease and lauded for the manner in which they could enhance a person's beauty.
Japan
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Beginning in 11th century Japan, geishas decorated the corners of their eyes with crushed flower petals, rice flower and bird droppings to enhance their beauty. The make-up was applied with brushes made from wax.
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