Object of the Day: A Crimson Comb

Nearing the middle of the Victorian Era, decorative hair ornaments and combs reached an apex of opulence. Combs were often quite tall and heavily adorned with crystals. Designers also relied on color so that a lady could match the comb to her other jewels as well as to her gown.


Many combs were made of shell or bone, but the introduction of celluloid provided a lightness to hair ornaments which made them considerably more comfortable to wear. This grand comb is created from cellulite and features an intricate pierced pattern of curves and volutes. The crown of the comb glitters with brilliant scarlet rhinestones. There’s nothing subtle about this comb, but, then again, subtlety is overrated.