Editing Backscratcher (section)

== Composition and variation ==
[[File:Mid 00767672 001.jpg|thumb|An ornate metal backscratcher, created using [[Bidriware|bidri]] during the Mughul Dynasty (Production date: 1604-1625)<ref name=":1">https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/W_1895-0608-96</ref>]]
Backscratchers are generally long, slender, rod-shaped tools used to scratch one's back, with a knob on one end for holding and a [[rake (tool)|rake]]-like device, sometimes in the form of a human [[hand]], on the other end to perform the scratching. Many others are shaped like horse hooves or claws, or are telescoping to reach further down the back. Most modern backscratchers are typically made of [[plastic]], [[bamboo]], or [[metal]]. Examples throughout history can be found made of [[wood]], [[whalebone]], [[tortoiseshell material|tortoiseshell]], [[keratin|horn]], [[cane (grass)|cane]], [[ivory]], [[baleen]], and in some cases, [[narwhal]] tusks, due to the status afforded by relieving itches with a supposed unicorn horn (an example of [[conspicuous consumption]]).

Backscratchers vary in length between {{convert|12|and|24|in|cm}}. They are a common household tool.