H x W x D: 28.9 x 9.5 x 1.3 cm (11 3/8 x 3 3/4 x 1/2 in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
Ghana
Date:
Early to mid-20th century
Label Text:
Large wooden combs are a specialized artform among the Akan. While some might be used to hold a woman's hair during styling, most were intended solely as gifts to mark a special occasion in a woman's life. This comb features superstructure motifs associated with a ruler's power--a leopard (or possibly a lion) atop an English-style crown. On each side are war horns atop wisdom knots, probably representing umbrella finials. Such finials were used on the large court umbrellas used at processions and ceremonies to mark the space of important court members.
Description:
Wood comb with nine teeth; the tenth one is missing. Comb is composed of a rectangular block with incised geometric designs and a superstructure of a leopard atop an English-style crown flanked by war horns atop wisdom knots.
Provenance:
Mr. and Mrs. William Brill, -- to 1972
Content Statement:
As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
Image Requests:
High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
