A late 17th century Jamaican engraved tortoiseshell wig comb and case

A late 17th century Jamaican engraved tortoiseshell wig comb and case, inscribed 'JAMAICA 1678', possibly by Paul Bennett, the front of the case with a vase of flowers, the stem with a coronet, with a later applied printed extract mentioning early English combs, above the inscription, with a trailing foliage border, the reverse with a banana tree and two pineapples, with conforming border, the comb with trailing tulip, sunflower and other flowers, the case 7¾in (19.7cm) high, 5in (14cm) wide. (2)

This comb and case are a remarkable survivor of a small group of similar examples made in Jamaica between 1671 - 1682 and 1688 - 1692. Research has revealed two possible makers for these pieces. The first and most likely to have made the example above was Paul Bennett, who is listed as the only combmaker working in Port Royal within these dates, the second is likely to be an assitant, son or apprentice.

There are eleven of these combs in The Institute of Jamaica, all bearing similar treatment of the decoration. Some include a smaller double sided comb.

Examples of dated Jamaican tortoiseshell include; a pair of combs with case, dated 1673, Bonhams, Fine English Furniture, 21st Nov 2012, sold £23,750 (inc. prem.); an oval box, dated 1678, Lacy Scott & Knight, 15th September, sold £3,000 (hammer); See Victoria & Albert Museum, combs and case, dated 1673 (524 to B-1877).