Pair of Carding Comb Paddles Nigeria

Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.

Damage/Repair: cracked and scraped patinas, well-worn and missing wire bristles; see pictures for details.

This is a pair of manual carding tools used to prepare cotton fibers for spinning. Made in Nigeria, the wooden board and handle are covered with a cotton cloth secured by nails and studs, further layered with wires. Each card bears an incised icon and the words "CARD COTTON" on the back, reflecting its purpose. These tools were vital for carding, a method to open, clean, and align fibers for spinning. Despite their age, these cards were actively used until recently, showcasing their durability and significance in the cotton processing industry.