SIZE AND CONDITION: 6 x 5¾ ins; excellent vintage condition.

This very pretty and unusual comb is probably made from one of the newer synthetics, either Catalin or Lucite, which allowed a number of exotic decorative effects. In this case the openwork design on the heading has been made with tiny gold metallic fragments which are suspended in the plastic. Combs like this seem to have originated in the USA and are generally known as glitter or sometimes goldstone effect combs, in imitation of the mineral known as goldstone which has glittering iron pyrites in it. Trade names for such effects were Tinseloid, Goldstone or Goldaleur.

This one is designed in the manner of the classic Spanish unfurled fan shape, in which floral motifs are combined with scrolls and spokes. Picture 9 is taken from a contemporary fashion print dates 1923 and shows a model with a similar large comb worn in asymmetric style.

MORE INFORMATION BELOW:

These Spanish style combs were worn in a characteristic manner, being placed in the side or back of the hairdressing at an acute angle, and in such a way that the tall heading stood up proud. This enabled the often beautiful openwork decoration or the decorative effect which had been applied to the material, to be viewed from all angles, and for the details to be seen effectively outlined against the light.

Many of the designs of combs produced in this period are asymmetric or incorporate Art Nouveau-ish flowers and scrolls with the later Art Deco synthetic materials. They are then said to be transitional in style, and some of the most beautiful combs and ornaments are made in this transmutational design.