Scientific analysis of a preserved head of hair at Romsey Abbey, UK

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a scientific investigation on a preserved head of hair, discovered in 1839 inside a lead coffin beneath the Norman Abbey of Romsey (Hampshire, UK). Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) radiocarbon dating, modelled to account for dietary marine protein intake indicated by stable isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N), suggests that this individual died between 895–1123calAD (95.4% probability). A wooden ‘pillow’ found supporting the hair produced a date of 895–1016calAD (95.4% probability). These results suggest that this burial dates from the end of the ninth century to the early twelfth century, placing it in the late Saxon or immediately post-Conquest era. Analysis by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) of residue adhering to the hair surface indicates the presence of Pinacea resin, deriving either from funerary ritual or hair care during life.