Comb
Timor, Indonesia
19th c.
Provenance: Old American collection
Combs made of buffalo horn were traditionally used in Timor, as female hair adornments. The buffalo horn was a common material used for making combs and other household items due to its durability and availability in the region. This comb is carved in the form of a bird, certain bird species are considered to have special cultural or religious significance, and carving their images into everyday objects such as combs can serve as a way to honor and pay respect to these birds. The comb has been intricately carved with a plume of head feathers and stylized eyes. At the back of the bird head- five tines fan out creating the illusion of spread wings of a bird in flight. The deep patina and signs of wear on the surface are a testament to the many decades of use that it has seen.
Comb
Timor, Indonesia
19th c.
Provenance: Old American collection
Combs made of buffalo horn were traditionally used in Timor, as female hair adornments. The buffalo horn was a common material used for making combs and other household items due to its durability and availability in the region. This comb is carved in the form of a bird, certain bird species are considered to have special cultural or religious significance, and carving their images into everyday objects such as combs can serve as a way to honor and pay respect to these birds. The comb has been intricately carved with a plume of head feathers and stylized eyes. At the back of the bird head- five tines fan out creating the illusion of spread wings of a bird in flight. The deep patina and signs of wear on the surface are a testament to the many decades of use that it has seen.