Antique 4" Wide French Tortoise Shell Hair Ornament, Napoleon III Era Chignon Comb, Tiara
Elegant 19th century (Napoleon III era, c.1850-70s) French chignon comb in carved tortoise shell. You see the arch to it that fits it to the curve of the scull. Very chic, and sought after today, as well as then. Most of these were actually products crafted in Naples, and there was a particular dealer located in Paris, "G.B. Morabito", where items like this and also red coral and other items from Naples could be found and I've included a photo of that Paris store, c.1870s. Full measurements noted on the photos. Very good to excellent condition for age and type, a heavy arch of elegant shell with all of the tines present, not a single bug bite at tips (see images). At 4" long, imagine it holding your own long hairstyle, and the cascading hair as you pull the comb free. We all love these! I'm letting go of my lifelong collections. Found many years ago. IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern wo