New Book 'Warpaint' Traces the History of Male Makeup From Ancient Kings to Modern Influencers

Josh Sims's newly released book, 'Warpaint: Male Makeup and Identity Through Time,' charts the evolution of male cosmetics across centuries. The work uses historical case studies and visual documentation to show how makeup has been tied to identity, power, and social performance, moving in and out of cultural favor.

The book revisits ancient figures such as Tutankhamun, whose kohl-lined eyes likely symbolized both protection and authority in ancient Egypt. It also addresses the 'Great Male Renunciation' of the 19th century, a cultural shift that favored plainness and austerity over ornamentation for men.

More recent history highlights artists and performers who used makeup to reshape perceptions of masculinity. David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust persona blended theatrical cosmetics with music and fashion, while drag pioneer RuPaul challenged gender norms and influenced mainstream aesthetics.

Social media beauty creators like James Charles have further normalized makeup among younger male audiences. Sims argues that as beauty brands increasingly embrace gender-neutral marketing and broader definitions of masculinity, male makeup is re-entering the mainstream.

'Warpaint' aims to aid in the mainstreaming of men's cosmetics by providing a comprehensive historical context for a practice often seen as modern.