A large fan shaped Art Deco hair comb in celluloid faux tortoiseshell

 

CONDITION: good vintage condition with expected wear

 

SIZE: 6 ins h x 6 ins w (15 x 15 cm) decorative part 3 ins h (7.5 cm)

 

APPROXIMATE DATE: 1910 – 1920s

 

MATERIALS: celluloid

 

DESCRIPTION:

Here is a very attractive Art Deco period hair comb made in celluloid faux tortoiseshell. It is formed in the iconic fan shape design, in which lines or blades radiate out from the base of the heading. Here the blade like motifs are separated by scrollwork motifs.

Another interesting factor is the parti-coloured appearance of this ornament. This is a result of laying one colour over another, called celluloid overlay. In this case a dark brown has been laid over a translucent base, and then the design carved through. This produces an interesting topography with the lighter colour also visible around the edges of the design and on the tips and edges of the tines.

Hair accessories like this which have a high upstanding top or heading are generally known as Spanish or mantilla combs because of their resemblance to the beautiful ornaments worn by Spanish ladies with their native dress. The comb is placed to that the beautiful and intricate heading can be seen from all angles, allowing its fancy decoration to be appreciated.