This is a lovely example of classic style. Hair comb pairs like this were also called opera combs. The crowns of these are openwork plaques set with about 1.50 carats of European-cut and rose-cut diamonds atop tortoise shell combs.
Eighteenth-century India gives us this next tiara in an unusual hinged form. The openwork decoration depicts three lilies surrounded by stems and foliage.
The last tiara is just a knockout. It’s an English turquoise and diamond tiara, c. 1880, and sold for 27,000 GBP. I want this. :-)
Well, I can comfort myself by acknowledging that tiara had to be very uncomfortable – the two metal pieces on the sides probably bit into the head (and don’t you tell me different – this is a psychological thing I’m working on here!!!! ;o)
Question: The Opera Combs – I have a couple pairs on this order (“on this order” being open at the top, filigre work attached to tort prongs – not a diamond or semi-precious stone in sight….) and am wondering how they were worn. Dressing a bun? Stuck into an extravagant ‘do?
I’ve not seen pics of them “in action,” as I have with other combs.
Thanks again, Barbara, for the Monday morning lovelies!
Peggy E.
either stuck into an extravagant “do,” or pulling back loose hair on each side. Oh yes, the turquoise tiara I would die for would be waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too uncomfortable. I couldn’t ever manage to wear it — like everywhere. ;-PPPPPPPPPPPP