Record

Comb of bone

< 1 of 1 > Back

From Dun Cuier, Barra, Outer Hebrides

Postcard of Comb of bone.
000-100-039-367-C
© National Museums Scotland

Comb of bone

This bone comb was found at Dun Cuier on Barra in the Outer Hebrides. It was used sometime between 600 and 800.

The single-sided comb consists of pieces of bone or antler cut into teeth, riveted together between two connecting plates on top, broken now on one side. The body of the comb has been carved in an openwork design and stamped with ring-and-dot pattern.

Combs are known in Scotland from the last few centuries BC onwards. They were used for grooming hair, beards and mustaches, as well as de-lousing. Some, such as this one, were carefully made and were meant for display.


Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.

Online ID: 000-100-039-367-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.GU 269
Date: Between 600 and 800
Material: Bone; high-backed; back curved with an openwork pattern and numerous incised ring-and-dots
Dimensions: 2.65" x 1.75"
What: Comb, hair
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, Inverness-shire, Barra, Dun Cuier
Event:
Description: Single-sided, composite bone hair comb with openwork pattern and incised ring-and-dots, from Dun Cuier, Barra
References:
Translations:
Related Records:
< 1 of 1 > Back
 
Powered by Scran