Liturgical comb made of ivory
Medieval, late 11th century AD
Found in England or Wales
This highly decorated carved ivory comb was probably used in a
ceremonial role during the celebration of Mass or during the
consecration of a bishop.
It is carved on both sides, and the suspension loop at one end
indicates that it may have been worn or hung on a ribbon or chain
of some kind. It is carved with a fragmentary inscription, of
unclear meaning, but certainly religious in nature. The
significance of the figures carved into the central panel of the
comb is not known. They represent two adversaries, one armed and
helmeted (similar in appearance to warriors depicted on the Bayeux
Tapestry) and the other unarmed and in a position of
submission.
What makes the comb important? The quality and richness of the
carving suggests that it was an object of some significance. In
addition, it is made of elephant ivory, which places the comb in a
unique position. During the twelfth century, ivory carvings in
northern Europe were made of the ivory from the tusks of the walrus
(previously known as 'morse' ivory). Elephant ivory was very rare
indeed, and in fact so rare that no other piece of elephant ivory
is known to survive from this period in Britain.
J. Robinson, Masterpieces: Medieval Art (London, British Museum Press, 2008)
T. Richard Blurton (ed.), The enduring image: treasures, exh. cat (British Council, 1997)
T. Holland, J. Holt and G. Zarnecki (eds.), English Romanesque art 1066-12 (London, Hayward Gallery, 1984)