Comb (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
Made with pieces of carved bone laid over thin layers of silk, this wooden comb reveals the exquisite quality of some luxury items of the later Middle Ages. It is carved with decorative motifs, an image of an arm piercing a heart with an arrow, and the words Vive celle que i'aime (Life to her whom I love). Men and women would exchange gifts like this comb at engagement or wedding ceremonies.
Kathleen Boone Samuels Memorial Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.