Victorian French Empire Pique Winged Hair Comb

This is a beautiful French Empire hair comb in the shape of bird or angel wings. The wings are intricately carved with feathers, and along the top, they are embellished with pique work that is embedded in the comb. There is a button in the center of the comb, also embedded with pique work in diagonal lines. The pique work looks like the gold granulation that is often seen in turn-of-the-century jewelry. The comb is made from organic material with a mottled surface of amber and dark brown. The comb has a hinged element, in excellent condition, that allows you to wear it multiple ways. It be worn at the top of a bun like a tiara, for a look that is Athenian, at the back of a knot, or along the side of the head. The wingspan of the comb is 4.5” and the height from top to bottom is 6.5”. It is in excellent condition, with the exception of a few pieces of the gold pique missing, which is age-appropriate wear. Circa 1900. Featured in "Antique Combs & Purses" by Evelyn Haertig, p. 133.