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Sinhalese Ivory and Gold Hair Comb
Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
circa 1800
length: 12.5 cm; width: 5.5 cm
This fine and extremely rare ivory comb is a beautiful example of Sinhalese
craftsmanship. Cut from a single piece of ivory, it has sixteen prongs and is inlaid
on both sides with chased gold plaques. There are no losses either to the gold or
the ivory. It is in an extremely unusual form. However, for a related item - a small
Sinhalese silver box with identical gold repousse panels - see lot 406 of
Sotheby's 'Indian, Himalayan and South-East Asian Art', London, November 23,
1987.
The combination of ivory and inlaid gold is typical of Sinhalese work - the
Sinhalese being the dominant ethnic group on the island of what was known as
Ceylon (now Sri Lanka.)
Most likely used to comb long, wet hair to help with the drying process, the comb
undoubtedly was an item of considerable prestige and probably was given as a
wedding gift.
Inventory no.: 65
This Item is available - Ask about this item
Sinhalese Ivory and Gold Hair Comb
Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
circa 1800
length: 12.5 cm; width: 5.5 cm
This fine and extremely rare ivory comb is a beautiful example of Sinhalese
craftsmanship. Cut from a single piece of ivory, it has sixteen prongs and is inlaid
on both sides with chased gold plaques. There are no losses either to the gold or
the ivory. It is in an extremely unusual form. However, for a related item - a small
Sinhalese silver box with identical gold repousse panels - see lot 406 of
Sotheby's 'Indian, Himalayan and South-East Asian Art', London, November 23,
1987.
The combination of ivory and inlaid gold is typical of Sinhalese work - the
Sinhalese being the dominant ethnic group on the island of what was known as
Ceylon (now Sri Lanka.)
Most likely used to comb long, wet hair to help with the drying process, the comb
undoubtedly was an item of considerable prestige and probably was given as a
wedding gift.
Inventory no.: 65
This Item is available - Ask about this item
