Artist: Unknown, most likely made by someone of or belonging to the church since it represents Catholicism positively
Title: Double-Sided Ivory Liturgical Comb with Scenes of Henry II and Thomas Becket
Date: 1200–1210
Medium: Ivory
Size: 3 3/8 x 3 3/8 x 1/2 in. (8.6 x 8.6 x 1.2 cm)
This liturgical comb was most likely made in England, possibly in Canterbury during the Middle Ages of the early 1200s. The context surrounding this would be the power struggle between the Catholic church and the reign of Henry II. Though, the church still remained with a lot of power. A liturgical comb like this would be used before a Mass on the priest's hair to prepare him for the service.
According to the source, this is the only comb known that is decorated with scenes from the life and martyrdom of Saint Thomas Becket. On one side is a scene of Henry II informing Becket that he will become the archbishop of Canterbury. On the other sides of this center depictions are scenes of the boat that will take Thomas Becket on his final mission to England and a church facade, which is most likely alluding to Canterbury Cathedral, the church in which Becket was in charge of. All these images praise the Catholic church and the work Becket has done for the religion.
The opposite side of the comb shows the martyrdom and murder of Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral on December 29, 1170. The images in the half-circles on the side of this main image contain an angel at the altar of martyrdom and also a devil holding a book. This shows that good is correlated with the Church and with Becket since it shows nice floral depictions of him and the church, but evil, dark connotation with the king, Henry II and his knights.
I believe the meaning of this piece is to depict the power and positive aspects of the Catholic church, while reinforcing negative views on the kingship of Henry II. The calm, serene setting of Thomas Becket receiving news of his role as archbishop, as well as his church and boat, led me to believe that the creator of this comb appreciated the church and Becket's role in it, as they want the priest using the comb to think about this during his time as a priest. I think it also serves the purpose in not approving of the king's power during this time, especially over the church. This is particularly shown by the use of the devil being shown next to the scene of the king's knights killing Thomas Becket. Only well-known, highly respected priest and member of the church would deserve his life to be delicately carved out in ivory for other church members to see.
The creator of this liturgical comb, carefully carved his scenes into expensive ivory. The images are set up as to have the all-important, Thomas Becket, depicted in the largest, center image and supporting images on either side. The artist honored key features of Gothic English art around 1200 by including the classic naturalism of the figures and floral ornament decorating the piece. Also, the carver made sure to carve deeply behind the figures of the important people depicted, especially Thomas Becket. This created shadows behind them, that makes them stand out more and highlights their importance. This may also show the holiness of Becket since his figure stands out more than other features depicted on the comb. Also, the ivory is very polished so that it appears and feels smooth. This attention to detail, shows the dedication to the church and the religion. Since this comb would be used by a priest, it also shows the respect for this position.
To also show the meaning and importance of this piece, it is currently in The Metropolitan Museum of Art. This liturgical comb and work of art conveys that during this time period and in this location, church leaders commonly competed for power with the king. It also shows insight behind the wealth within the church. The intricacy and material of the liturgical comb shows that the church can afford such niceties, especially if they honor religious figures. The comb signifies the martyrdom of Thomas Becket, which would have been an important symbol for Catholics during the 14th century. It showed them to stay loyal to the church and to not put the king above the church. In today's society, it would have similar meaning and importance for Christians. It signifies the adversity those of their religion have faced to have a relationship with God, as well as the growth the Christian churches have experienced.
