African Antique Hair Comb with Bird in Hand, Ashanti Culture, Ghana
African Antique Hair Comb with Bird in Hand, Ashanti Culture, Ghana
$850.00
Wood
Early 20th century
10 x 4.25 in. / 25 x 11 cm
Height on custom display stand: 11.5 in. / 29 cm
Old repair to the left side
Nicely composed with a traditional silhouette and avian imagery. The bird held by a hand is a depiction of an Ashanti proverb “One bird in your hand is better than 10 birds in the sky.” The valuation differs considerably from the Western version. Western influences are evident by the cross motif.
In Ashanti culture, combs are worn by both sexes. Women receive combs as gifts to mark important events and milestones.
Domestic shipping included. International shipping quoted separately.