Classic Java frontal hair comb with gilded filigree embellishment

CONDITION: good vintage condition with expected wear

SIZE: 3 ins h x 4½ ins w (7.5 x 11 cm)

MATERIALS: brass, rhinestones

DESCRIPTION:

Here is a traditional type of comb from the island of Java, Indonesia. It would have been worn for weddings or similar festivals.

The design comprised a deeply curved heading finished off on top with a gently scalloped profile. The decorative front part is overlaid by gilded metal filigree with clear rhinestones placed at salient intervals. The design features scrollwork. The back of the comb case in plain and it has four prongs to secure it in the hair.

It would probably have been placed in a similar way in the front or side of the hair to that illustrated in the final picture. The arrangement was then surmounted by an elaborate wedding crown of the type illustrated in the final picture.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Large and elaborate headdresses are still part of the traditional dress worn on festive and ceremonial occasions such as weddings in Borneo, Sarawak, Sumatra, Java and other western islands of Indonesia. Elaborate metal headpieces gilded, embossed and engraved or intricately carved combs are worn tiara like on the front or top of the head. Smaller combs are ornaments would be worn to decorate the front of the hair as shown in the final illustration.