John B. Henry
  • Home
  • Our Collection
    • Blunderbusses
    • Cartridge
    • Colt
    • Combination Knife Pistols
    • Curio & Relic
    • Derringers
    • Edged Weapons
    • Flintlock
    • Hunting Rifles
    • Long Guns & U.S. Military
    • Mauser Parts
    • Pepperboxes
    • Percussion
    • Reproductions
    • Shotguns
    • Unique Items
    • View All Antique Firearms
  • Contact
  • About
  • Our Collection
  • >
  • Unique Items
  • >
  • Folding Whaler’s Knife (1176)

Folding Whaler’s Knife (1176)

SKU: 1176
$900.00
$720.00
$720.00
Unavailable
per item
One of the earliest American art forms, scrimshaw dates from the whaling industry in the late 1700’s. During the countless idle hours at sea, a whaler etched drawings of nautical themes on items that were readily available to him, such as sperm whale teeth and bones, using a sail needle, nail, or pocket knife. After he scratched his art work into the surface of the bone, he would rub lamp black or tobacco juice into the scratch to reveal the drawing. Traveling west, American frontiersmen carried the art form with them, applying it to their powderhorns, knives, and other accessories.

This exquisite example dates from the early 1800s, with a delicate scrimshaw scene carved into the handle, showing a floral pattern on one side and scrolled ivy on the other. Brass hilt. The overall length measures 17 inches, and the blade is 8 inches long. Very Good condition. 
Please contact us to purchase.
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • Google+
Sold Out
Add to Cart

Our Products and Services

Antique Firearms
Rare Collectibles
Appraisal Services

Company

About Us
Shipping and Return Policies

Support

Contact Us
Disclaimer
Picture