This comb has a very worn surface patina where it has been held and handled. It is surmounted with a finely carved figure, a female with both arms raised and resting on her breasts. She displays a pronounced parted coiffure typically found amongst the Kwere. The body of the comb is decorated with geometric designs, similar to those found on household and utilitarian items along the Tanzania coast.
Amongst the Kwere combs such as this would have been given as a bridal or dowry gift by a man to a woman, often by a father of the bride to his daughter.
Kept as a symbol of marriage, these prized possessions would be passed down from mother to daughter.
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