Combs found in Tokyo antique fairs

I’ve been lazy to post my recent finds and I will be brief with them in this post. I hope you enjoy them & find them worthy to be enjoyed!

I will make two separate posts, the first one here will focus on combs. But first, photos of all my antique & vintage finds on this trip in Tokyo:

 

The first comb & hairstick set, which I think is the best find at the best price: a set painted with 12 Chinese zodiacs, made from lacquered tortoiseshell and MOP inlays.

It’s very lucky for them to survive in a pair, as there are only 10 zodiacs on the comb, the rest 2 on each end of the hairstick.

Also a fun fact: the Pig in original Chinese zodiac is a domestic pig, but the Japanese replaced it with boar.

 

These are actually online finds , but they arrived right after my return, so I just included them here:

Lacquered tortoiseshell, painted with maple leaves and a mask of female demon. My guess is early to mid 20 century.

Again a set of comb and hairstick, lacquered wood, painted with various flowers under a full moon. I would say late Edo for this one.

 

Was disappointed with this one because I thought it was ivory lol. But I didn’t pay too much, so still a nice piece of antique celluloid. Similar examples made of genuine ivory are usually dated to Meiji era, so probably same for their substitute.

Would love to know any advice on how to store celluloid, as I just found it even needs more care

 

Finally, some plain tortoiseshell goodies. The top one might be the oldest based on the teeth, smaller younger but no younger than Meiji I believe

 

Gorgeous finds, shammie! I see you even found a Chinese piece, a little Canton fan brooch.

Wow!!!

Make sure it has ventilation, and check it regularly. It is best stored separately from other celluloid, especially from any piece that has started to deteriorate. It is a sweetie.

 

I have also heard that it should not be stored near a heater or other heat source.

You have such a beautiful collection! Thank you for sharing.