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ProvenanceJonathan Holstein, Cazenovia, New York
BibliographyVincent, Gilbert et al. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2000, p.46.
Fognell, Eva and Alexander Brier Marr, eds. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection at the Fenimore Art Museum, 2nd ed. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2016, p. 27.
Culture
Seneca (Haudenosaunee)
Comb
Date1660-1675
MediumMoose or elk antler
DimensionsOverall: 4 3/4 × 2 1/2 in. (12.1 × 6.4 cm)
Object numberT0265
Credit LineLoan from the Eugene V. and Clare E. Thaw Charitable Trust
Photograph by Richard Walker
Label TextSince late prehistoric times Haudenosaunee artists carved effigy-decorated combs made from wood, bone and antler. The combs were worn by men, women and children. After the introduction of metal tools in the 17th century, the carvings became more elaborate with finely cut teeth. The carvings reached their peak in development between 1650 and 1700, after which they slowly went out of fashion.
The carver of this effigy comb skillfully made use of negative space to create balance and symmetry in his design of two wolves that face each other. The wolf figures may represent clan affiliation.ProvenanceJonathan Holstein, Cazenovia, New York
BibliographyVincent, Gilbert et al. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2000, p.46.
Fognell, Eva and Alexander Brier Marr, eds. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection at the Fenimore Art Museum, 2nd ed. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2016, p. 27.
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