Description
In Roman times, personal grooming was no mere luxury,it spoke volumes about one’s place in society and personal identity. This comb, shaped from bone, offers a tangible connection to everyday life along the empire’s edges. Bone was a practical choice for such implements, valued for its strength and ease of carving before metals became common for grooming tools. The comb’s design includes carved bird heads, likely gulls, which might represent freedom or hint at coastal origins where the comb was made. The Latin inscription etched into the piece suggests that its owner was literate or that the comb held special significance, grounding it firmly in its cultural context. Crafted in the Iberian Peninsula during Emperor Augustus’s rule, this comb reflects the mingling of local craftsmanship with the broader Roman world.
Note: Bone, being a natural material, carries unique variations in color and texture, each piece telling its own story.
- Overall dimensions: 4-1/2″ x 3-1/2″
Fun fact: Roman combs were often used not only for grooming but also as tools to remove lice, making them essential items in daily hygiene.
