The Spanish Comb

Antique Tiffany large signed hair comb sterling silver with inset citrine

$2,000

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Magnificent antique Tiffany signed hair comb sterling silver with citrine circa 1875

CONDITION: good vintage condition with minor signs of wear

SIZE: 8 x 5½ ins (20 x 15 cm) decorative part 4¼ ins (10.5 cm)

WEIGHT: 4 oz (128 grammes)

MATERIALS: sterling silver parcel gilt with citrine

DESCRIPTION:

Impressed manufacturer's mark to reverse 'Tiffany & Co 3153 Sterling M Union Square'.

Provenance: Private Collection

This magnificent large Tiffany hair comb is a wonderful example and a must for collectors of classic American antique silver. It was probably made in the mid 1870s in the so-called Spanish style which dominated comb making at that time. Spanish style combs are so called because they seek to emulate the beautiful ornaments worn by Spanish ladies with their traditional dress. The salient point in this style of ornament is a tall upstanding heading or top which can be seen from all angles when placed in the hair.

This wonderful example has an ornately decorated heading with both engraved and repousee decoration. The apex has an openwork panel which is set with a marquise shaped yellow citrine. Scrolled motifs occupy the spaces on either side. Beneath is a deep band of decoration with a scroll and acorn motif. The comb has nine integral tines which hold it firmly in the hair. There are all in good condition and not bent or twisted as in many sterling ornaments of this period.

The final picture is taken from an engraved fashion plate of the period and shows some examples of how these high topped Spanish combs were worn and the fashionable hair dressing of the day.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Tiffany & Co. began way back in 1837 as a stationary and "fancy goods" store, However the store shifted its main focus to jewelry in 1853.

Being in business so long Tiffany & Co. has enabled the company to produce jewelry in many different styles through the decades. During their heyday Tiffany & Co. produced hair combs in various styles from the Victorian through the Edwardian era and into the 1920's.

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Item id: DUP25-1-031
Color: Silver
Item type: Antique
Fashion style: Designer
Fashion era: Victorian