The comb, lot 291, was formed from ivory with a gold filigree back studded with semi-precious stones and was attributed to the Tang dynasty (AD618 to 907). It was part of a fascinating and impressive collection of Chinese combs assembled over many years by a Melbourne collector and offered as part of an Asian art sale.
Another stand-out was lot 322, a Song/Ming (1200-1600) dynasty jade and gold foil comb, the back formed as two celadon jade twining dragons confronting a pearl, which sold for $29,280. But most of the combs failed to sell – which must have been disappointing for their owner who doubtless hoped the collection would stay together and go to an institution.
Elsewhere the results were also patchy, perhaps reflecting the capricious interests of mainland Chinese buyers, and there were many lots unsold. Among the surprises were lot 282, a box of seven ivory seals catalogued as 20th century, which brought $39,040, the same price as a large Mughal-style carved jade ewer, Qing dynasty.
A fencai enamel vase marked for the Daoguang dynasty (1820-50) brought $29,280, a transitional (mid 17th century) blue-and-white brushpot sold for $26,840, a black-glazed Tang horse brought $18,300 and a diminutive blue-glazed brush rest described as possibly Wan Li (circa 1600) brought $13,420.