Late Victorian Back Comb with Gilt Metal Heading
Ref: AN-1008-026
This is a nice quality back comb dating from circa 1890 to 1910. This type of hair accessory was specifically designed to be worn at the back of the hairdressing above or below the chignon. It is usually identified by a deep curve made to fit the skull. These combs are usually wider than they are high and have an elaborate heading or top decorated in some way. This handsome example is of celluloid faux tortoiseshell with a gilt metal heading design decorated in amber rhinestones. This comb is typical of a class of jewellery favoured by women with more conservative tastes.
At the turn of the 20th century the hair was worn in a distinctive puffed out style familiar from the drawings of Charles Dana Gibson. This Gibson girl style is also known as a Pompadour, and often incorporated the use of pads and false hair. It was supported at the back and sometimes at the sides as well by wide hair combs, which might be as plain or as fancy as the wearer desired. These combs also helped to support the huge hats of the late Victorian and Edwardian period, as illustrated in the contemporary photograph which is dated 1895.
Size: 2½ x 4½ ins (approx 6.5 x 11.5 cms)
£40.00
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