Decorated Antler Comb
Hygiene was surprisingly important to Scandinavian peoples who came into regular contact with parasites from sheep as well as from other humans – an issue that would no doubt have been extremely evident in a more urbanized, highly trafficked location such as Birka. Like many other examples of viking hygiene tools, the comb is made of antler or bone, an organic material that would have been readily available and easy for viking-age craftsmen to carve.[2]
Perhaps surprisingly, the main function of combs like this was not to craft a beautiful aesthetically pleasing hairstyle, but to remove lice. The teeth on this comb are especially narrow for this purpose. Although we tend to think of hygiene today as a means of improving one’s outward appearance, hygiene and beauty for viking peoples was often more practical and concerned with controlling parasites or bodily functions.
The decoration carved on the bridge of the comb is created through thick lines in a relatively close knit, geometric based design. The pattern resembles a lattice more than an animal-motif based interlace or knotwork, which differs somewhat from the more established viking styles. On either side of the comb there are also visible cross motifs, which may be a feature of the design or indications of an early exposure to Christianity.
Finds like this are significant because they offer a glimpse into the daily life of viking age people in areas where our written sources are dark.
