Classic Java hair comb silver tone metal filigree embellishment

CONDITION: 2 missing stones otherwise good vintage condition with accepted wear

SIZE: 4½ ins h x 6 ins w (11 x 15 cm) decorative part 1¼ ins h (3 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 of white metal filigree motifs joined together to form a concerted whole. The design features underlying scroll work and is further embellished by clear rhinestones set at salient points. The back of the comb case in plain and it has three prongs to secure it in the hair.

It would probably have been placed tiara style in the front of the hair. 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.