Spanish mantilla style hair comb from the Art Deco period in black celluloid

 

CONDITION: good vintage condition with expected wear

 

SIZE: 6½ ins h x 5 ins w (16 x 13 cm); decorative part 3½ ins h (9 cm)

 

APPROXIMATE DATE: 1910s – 1920s

 

MATERIALS: celluloid

 

DESCRIPTION:

Here is a very attractive large Art Deco period hair comb made in the iconic fan shape design, in which lines or blades radiate out from the base of the heading. Here the blade-like motifs alternate with panels of open scroll work. It is made in glossy black celluloid.

This type of ornament is often known as Spanish or mantilla comb because it resembles a smaller version of the traditional large shell ornaments worn by Spanish ladies with their native dress. In practice any comb which has a high upstanding heading or top which stands proud of the top of the head is often called a mantilla comb. Such combs are worn placed high on the head in order to allow the beauty of their ornamental cresting to be admired.

The collage photograph shows some examples of similar hair accessories taken from contemporary illustrative sources, and reveals the manner and hair styles in which they were worn.