For ancient Egyptians, appearance was an important issue. Appearance indicated a person’s status, role in a society or political significance. Like modern hairstyles, Egyptian hairstyles varied over time. During the Old Kingdom, hair was usually worn short. Some shaved their heads and then wore a wig when going to social events or for protection from the sun. During the New Kingdom Period, the style was to wear the hair longer and sometimes braided. Children’s heads were shaved, except for a braid on the left side, until they hit puberty.

Combs of the New Kingdom were either single or double-sided and made from wood or bone. The hot dry atmosphere in Egypt helps to preserve wood that was normally imported from other countries. Traces of red paint are still visible on this comb. Some of them were finely made with long grips. Combs have been found among early tomb goods, even those dating from Predynastic times. This comb may have been part of a funeral equipment.