Record

Comb

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from Jarlshof, Shetland

Postcard of Comb.
000-180-001-450-C
© National Museums Scotland

Comb

This bone or antler comb was found at the Norse settlement of Jarlshof in Shetland. It was used for combing hair sometime between 850 and 1000.

The comb was made by cutting small plates of bone or antler into teeth. These were then riveted together between two connecting plates on top which, on this comb, have become separated. The plates were decorated with lines and interlace.

Combs were widely distributed in northern Europe during the Viking period, and their places of production are not certain. Some have elaborate decoration. They are also found in both men's and women's graves.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-180-001-450-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0504: National Museums Scotland Part 2
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.HSA 155
Date: Between 850 and 1000
Material: Bone
Dimensions: 6.75" L
What:
Subject:
Who:
Where: Scotland, Shetland, Sumburgh, Jarlshof
Event:
Description: Composite comb of bone or antler, hog-backed, from Jarlshof, Shetland
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