Ashanti Ceremonial Comb: Based

A teardrop head, wide-set eyes, and nine teeth keeping count.

This ceremonial comb was carved by Ashanti artists of Ghana, West Africa, in wood in the 20th century. Combs like it are commonly linked with beauty, femininity and gift-giving. The head is a smooth teardrop with a small face and narrow, pale-rimmed eyes, set on a ringed neck. Square lugs with pierced holes flank the shoulders, and a band of fine crosshatching runs above the teeth. The wood is blackened and satiny, with a few lighter scuffs at the edges.

About eleven inches tall. A strong profile for a thing meant to sit in hair.