Viking Early Medieval Bronze Comb Two-Sided With Regardant Beast, 9th-12th Century

Description

Heading : Viking Early Medieval Bronze Comb. Two-Sided With Regardant Beast. 9th-12th Century

Material: Bronze

Period: Viking/Early Medieval

Date: 9th to 12th century

Origin: Northern Europe to Baltic

Condition: Fine. with dark patina   

Description: A toothed implement. possibly used as a comb or hair ornament. with regardant beast in openwork style. bi-facial 

Size and Weight: 46mm x 29mm. 9.94g

Features and Provenance: From a UK collection

Norsemen were particularly fussy about their appearance as it had both a cleanliness and religious significance. Their hair and beard were important to the male. to make a statement and probably to intimidate. Early combs were made from antler or bone and carried in a small pouch. high status combs were later made from metals and have been found as grave goods. but rarely in the UK.

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of the artefact and there are grades between

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear. all parts of pattern etc present. visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief. all parts of pattern etc present. but may be worn

Fine (F). Wear on the artefact and parts of item and pattern etc may be missing or not visible