Whalebone comb

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This whalebone comb was found at Howmae on North Ronaldsay in Orkney. It was used sometime between 200 BC and 400 AD.

The long-handled comb has been decorated with roughly incised lines on the handle. It is in good condition, although two teeth are broken off.

Long-handled combs such as this one are found at a number of native sites. Their function is the subject of some debate. Many see them as weaving combs, used to push the weft into place while weaving, but others argue for hair combs, or for combing wool.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-038-810-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.GO 2
• Date: Between 200 BC and 400 AD
  
• Material: Bone; long-handled; wedge shape; one tooth imperfect
  Comb, weaving
  
• Dimensions: 6.25" L
  
• What: Comb, weaving
  
• Subject:
• Who: Dr William Traill
  John Traill
  
• Where: Scotland, Orkney, North Ronaldsay, Howmae
  
• Event:
• Description: Long-handled bone weaving comb from Howmae, North Ronaldsay
  
• References:
• Translations:
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