Category
Decorative Arts
Medium
whale tooth
Condition
Excellent
Date Period
mid to late 1800s
Size and dimensions of this item
4.5" tall
Long Description
I've been very curious for years about the possible value of this piece of Americana. It is a genuine whale tooth, approx. 4.5" tall. It has several unusual features not seen in a typical item of scrimshaw. While most carved whale teeth feature a nautical theme, this is literary. The portrait of John Greenleaf Whittier as a young man is carved on one side; on the other are three stanzas form his poem "The Eternal Goodness". Above the poem is a star inlaid with what looks like abalone and the name "Sarah" within. Around the top is a whale hunting scene and the tooth itself is mounted on a custom made brass base. Near the bottom on one side is the initial "D". Both red and black inks were used to highlight the carving.
History
My mother heard about it from a man that collected scrimshaw and gave a lecture at out local library back in the early 1970s. He told her this was for sale and if she was interested she'd better hurry since a trade embargo was to soon go into effect and he was also interested in purchasing it. I don't remember who it was purchased from or the exact amount. I estimate between $100 and $200.
Price Paid (If known)
between $100 and $200
For Sale?
No