October 10. “Button, I was going through The Speaking Tree this morning when I discovered some amazing stuff about the humble comb.”

“But the comb is a simple item that’s used to comb hair!”

“May-be but the comb also has a history. It originated in Sweden and the oldest comb was found there in 2,500 BC!”

“That’s some news.”

“During 1800-500 BC, combs were made of bone or bronze and were given as burial gifts. During the early Iron Age between 500 BC and 400 AD, combs were made from iron and were in the shape of a half moon. In the late Iron Age between 400 and 1050 AD, narrower and longer combs were made. There were oil-dispensing combs made by Indian artisans where oil is poured in through an aperture at the top of the spine. When the well is filled with oil, the opening at the top is closed. When this comb is used, oil comes out from tiny holes in the teeth of the comb and oils as well as combs the hair.”

“This is so interesting.”

“In ancient China, combs were worn as hair accessories and the kind of comb worn reflected one’s social status. Even in Bengal, women dressed up their hair using ornate combs. I’ve seen my mother do it.”

“This proves that the comb is not humble by a long shot!”

“The comb may be turned into a musical instrument by stringing across its teeth the leaf of a plant or a thin piece of paper. Blowing on it with puckered lips produces a heavenly, ethereal sound.”