Antiques Roadshow nun blesses expert during | TV Shows

Buxton noted the comb’s “figurative element” on top, an Akuba, symbolizing fertility. He explained, “The idea is that when a woman wants to have a child, she has an Akuba and she keeps it in her belt and if she touches for it, cares for it, her child will be as beautiful as the doll.”

As he elaborated on its origins, the nun blessed him silently, prompting Buxton to acknowledge her gesture with a “Well, thank you” while she kept her gaze fixed on the relic.

He explained its authenticity, tracing its roots to the Guanacaste-Nicoya region of Costa Rica, dating back to 1,000 to 1,500 AD, and confirming its legitimacy.

The nun inquired about the purpose of the holes in the figure, and Buxton clarified: “What it is is when these things are fired, during the firing process, the pressure builds up inside. if it didn’t have a vent hole, it would explode.”

He noted the wear on the paint, which he said was to be expected given its age, humorously adding, “We would probably be abraded if we lived that long, wouldn’t we?”.

To which the nun responded with a laugh, “I’d be a little more than abraded!”.

After purchasing the comb for $10, Buxton estimated its value: “I think you’re going to be ahead of the game.”

He appraised the comb at $20 to $30 in an auction or gallery, but the figure could fetch between $150 to $250.

The nun reacted to the valuation with a pleased “Not bad return.”