Ashanti Ceremonial Comb: Based

Two small heads peek over the top, like neighbors over a fence.

This ceremonial comb is Ashanti, from Ghana, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is carved wood. Among the Akan, carved combs are often given as gifts of affection and are generally understood to honor beauty and care, with the finial figures adding a personal touch. The broad rectangular body is smooth and dark, dotted with small raised studs, and flanked by thin arms that fold along the sides. Above it rise two heads on ringed necks. Below, long slender teeth fall straight down. It is 4.5 inches wide and 12.5 high.

Two heads, and still only one comb to share.