Yao Ornamental Hair Comb

This etched bone comb was crafted in the 19th century, exemplifying the professional artisanal work of the Yao people of Southern China. The comb features a wonderfully etched construction that shows beautiful circular designs that are connected into a horizontal pattern shown throughout the comb. The comb also features a traditional red ball attached to the top along with a trailing tassel that features white and black trade beads with a square bone medallion, beautifully etched in a similar circular pattern.

This traditional tribal comb would've been worn for celebratory occasions by Yao woman. The woman's hair would be piled and twisted on top of her head with the comb slipped between while the tassels hang down. The hair comb has been mounted to admire its sculptural form.