The origins of such combs are likely based on Chinese and Spanish designs. These were popular until the mid-20th century as women used combs to secure their long locks in buns. Manila like other wealthy entrepots in Southeast Asia, was at the nexus of global trade. Historically, the Philippines was rich in natural resources such as gold and pearls. Early Spanish accounts note the impressive command of goldsmithing work by local goldsmiths. This long and distinguished tradition was observed during the colonial period of the Philippines, where trading hubs like Manila developed into important jewellery-making centres. This peineta reportedly belonged to the donor’s great-great-grandmother, Josefa Jordan Ortaliz Montilla.
