Hair Comb
This hair-comb is made of vulcanite (India rubber that has been treated with sulfur), and features an applied border in the shape of a seven-link chain atop a six-tooth comb. The back of the piece is marked "I.R. COMB CO GOODYEAR 1851." The process of vulcanizing rubber was discovered by Charles Goodyear and patented in 1844. By the 1850s vulcanite had become a popular substitute for more expensive materials such as tortoiseshell or jet and was frequently used by American jewelers and accessory makers.
Artwork Details
- Title: Hair Comb
- Manufacturer: Manufactured by India Rubber Comb Company
- Patentee: Patented by Charles Goodyear (1800–1860)
- Date: ca. 1851
- Medium: Vulcanite (India rubber and sulfur)
- Dimensions: 4 1/4 x 4 1/2 in. (10.8 x 11.4 cm)
- Credit Line: Purchase, Susan and Jon Rotenstreich Gift, 2000
- Object Number: 2000.561
- Curatorial Department: The American Wing
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