Product Description

Antique Chinese Mustache and Beard Comb

Material: Brass
Style: China
Size: Height 9 cm, Width 3 cm
Order Number: MHSACC1

This Chinese moustache and beard comb which would have been used by a noble man to groom his moustache and beard. The small, oval, two-sided combs were normally suspended from the neck, or from the waist belt. There is a handle with geometric designs and small hook. Two small bands stabilise the top and bottom.

In ancient China, people were not supposed to cut their hair or shave their beards. Moustaches were very popular in the Qing dynasty (1636–1912).

Confucius (551–479 BC) taught that the human body was a gift from one’s parents and no changes should be made to it. Tattoos were taboo. Cutting one’s hair or fingernails or shaving one’s beard were not allowed. Most men, if they could, let their hair and beard grow long.

19th – early 20th century.

There are some examples in Four Centuries of Silver, Personal Adornment in the Qing Dynasty and After, Margaret Duda, Times Editions, 2002, pages 145-147.

Please ask for the price (or make an offer).