A large and handsome Spanish style mantilla comb in faux tortoiseshell

 

CONDITION: good vintage condition with expected wear

 

SIZE:

8½ ins h x 7½ ins w 21 x 19 cm) decorative part 5½ ins h (16 cm)

 

APPROXIMATE DATE: mid 20^th century

 

MATERIALS: celluloid faux tortoiseshell

 

DESCRIPTION:

Here we have a very large and handsome Spanish mantilla comb in celluloid faux tortoiseshell, which probably dates from the 1960s to 1970s. It has a wide curved heading whose panel is filled in with classical leaf and scroll designs.

It was probably produced as a tourist souvenir for the Spanish travel industry which began to expand in the late 1950s – early 1960s. The growth of this industry promoted a renewed interest in Spanish costume, music and dance and hair combs were popular souvenirs. They are also purchased by Spanish dance groups worldwide.