Gifts of Grandeur: A Silver and Garnet Comb, 1900

Comb
Henry Wilson, 1900
English
Silver and garnets.
The Victoria & Albert Museum

Made in London by Henry Wilson in 1900, this comb/hair ornament of silver is set with garnets. The head of the comb is adorned with a pierced medallion of a crab, the symbol of the zodialogical sign Cancer which had been set with cabochon garnets.

As a jewelry designer, Henry Wilson's work is known for its rich and dramatic color combinations and the visual contrasts that he created with precious stones and enamel. He was also celebrated for the sculptural qualities of his designs. Wilson’s work is among the most popular of the Arts and Crafts jewelry designers. Originally, Wilson trained as an architect. Suring his studies, he became interested in metal-work in the early 1890s. Later, Wilson went on to teach at the Royal College of Art.