"Peinetones", a Will for Excess I.

Félix Luna.

The "peineta" is a long-standing female accessory characteristic of Spanish culture. Its origin is probably Arabic, since Arab women used them to hold the veils that shrouded their faces in place. These were small, inconspicuous objects, though, difficult to detect beneath their clothes.

Spaniards have long since adopted this ornament. With the passing of time, the size of the peinetas grew larger, the design of their shapes more exuberant; it became a luxury accessory, worn in special occasions such as religious ceremonies, bullfights and parties. These peinetas came to our continent bearing these characteristics, and in some cities - such as Lima - they became a key piece of feminine attire.