Comb Finial

Timor, Indonesia
19th-Early 20th c.

Provenance: Old American collection

This exquisite comb finial hails from the Lesser Sunda Islands and is meticulously carved from buffalo horn. Unfortunately, the lower part of the fan-like tines is absent, as it would have originally been affixed at the opening located at the bottom. At the crown of the comb, you’ll find intricate adornments featuring stylized animals and archaic open-form iconography, bearing the influence of the Dong-Son culture. Over time, the natural variations in the colors of this material have been further enhanced through extensive handling, adding to its unique charm.