The Gamsbart (German: ['gamsbɑːʁt], literally chamois beard, plural Gamsbärte) is a tuft of hair traditionally worn as a decoration on trachten-hats in the alpine regions of Austria and Bavaria.

At the Oktoberfest in Munich
Traditional costume of Miesbach, Bavaria

Originally worn as a hunting trophy and made exclusively from hair from the chamois' lower neck, Gamsbärte are today manufactured on a large scale from various animal hair, examples of which include goat, antelope,[1] and badger.[2] They are commonly sold by specialized dealers and also at souvenir shops.

A Gamsbart is made by enclosing the lower end of the tuft of hair in a setting of metal or horn that allows the upper end to spread in a brush-like fashion. Traditionally, hairs are selected for a dark color at the lower end with a very light tip. The size and diameter of the Gamsbart are important signs of the wearer's pride and manliness.

Traditionally, Gamsbärte are exclusively placed on hats worn by men; however, recent developments in dirndl fashion have seen Gamsbärte added to various places on female dresses.

References

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  1. ^ "Authentic German Genuine Gamsbart". Ernst Licht. Retrieved 2023-10-25.
  2. ^ "Gamsbart Badger Hair with Holder in 2 sizes $50 up – Trachten-Quelle". Retrieved 2023-10-25.