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Comb

Title

Comb

Year/Period

1800–1899

Region

Manila, Philippines

Object Type

ornamental combs

Material

tortoise shell

Technique

forming (physical activity), carving (processes)

Dimension

Object size: 4.0 x 17.3 x 17.9 cm

Accession No.

2018-01189

Collection of

Asian Civilisations Museum

Hair combs (peineta) like this first became popular in the Philippines. Using Spanish as well as Chinese designs, they were produced in Manila for local consumption as well as for export. Today old examples can be found all over Southeast Asia. Such combs were used to help hold long hair tightly in a bun. They went out of fashion when shorter hair styles came into vogue in the 20th century.