Flapper Shingle Comb

Ref: DE-0208-001

This unusual hair accessory is not really an ornament at all but an article used for cutting the hair at home in the early 20th century! At this time many young women began to cut their long hair very short in the boyish looking bob, and later the even more brief shingle.

Pictures 5 and 6 show examples of this extremely short boyish hair style.

Beauty salons were not very widespread at this time and confined to large cities. So many people had to cut their hair at home using aids like this which were available through catalogues.

The comb was placed on top of the hair with the teeth pointing downward. The lower edge formed a guide for cutting a straight edge on the hair. It is made from dark brown celluloid and is marked to show that is was patented on August 20th 1914. An interesting piece of costume and hairdressing history!

Size: 3 x 5¼ ins (approx 8 x 13 cms)

£15.00

Amber Fan Shape Spanish Comb

Ref: DE-0903-010

This very beautiful hair comb is made of a dark translucent amber coloured material which simulates either natural amber or the so-called blonde variety of genuine tortoiseshell. Most of the hair ornaments which appear to be made of natural materials are, in fact, made from synthetics. 

These faux amber, ivory or tortoise combs are some of the prettiest to be found at this period, and are skilfully treated to imitate the colouring and pattern of the genuine material. The design is yet another interpretation of the sunray design with palm shaped motifs radiating out from the base.

The final illustration is taken from a contemporary coloured postcard.

Size: 5¾ x 5 ins (approx 14.5 x 13 cms)

£35.00

Deep Amber Celluloid Overlay Fan Shaped Hair Comb

Ref: DE-0911-001

This large sized hair comb is made by an interesting manufactured technique called celluloid overlay. This is where the item is made in two separate castings of contrasting colours. Here for example a transparent base coat has been cast with a shiny upper shell in a mottled faux tortoise effect which shows along the edges of the swirled design and the tips of the tines.

The comb has a classic motif of radiating lines and terminating in a scalloped profile. This is yet another version of the iconic sunray motif which is found on many combs of the period and may refer to the popular craze for sun bathing.

Size: 6½  x 6½  ins; (approx 16.5 x 16.5 cms)

£40.00