Comb

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This antler comb was found at North Berwick in East Lothian. It is a Scandinavian type, either brought with the first wave of Viking raiders or settlers, or perhaps imported by traders in the 9th or 10th century.

The comb consists of plates of antler cut into teeth (now broken off), riveted together between two connecting plates on top. The corroding metal rivets are visible. The plate was decorated with an incised geometric design.

Combs of this type were widely distributed in northern Europe during the Viking period, and their places of production and sources of antler are not certain. Some have elaborate decoration and cases.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-000-099-674-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: Kiloran Bay Viking Burial (multimedia essay)
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• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: 9th or 10th century
  
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• References:
  • Graham-Campbell, James and Batey, Colleen E. Vikings in Scotland. An Archaeological Survey. Edinburgh: University Press, 1998, pp 105, 222. 
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