The origins of this odd dish are fascinating. Refined Victorian women sported waist-length tresses as their crowning glory. It was advised that they brush 100 strokes before braiding at bedtime. The residual strands were removed from their brushes and poked into the hole upon the lid. Later, the hair would be woven into intricate weavings of sentimental nature: hair jewelry, floral designs under glass. Today, cotton balls and hair pins are stashed. Cast from the antique. Silver-plated brass. 5 x 2.5"