Folding Whaler’s Knife (1176)
SKU:
1176
$900.00
$720.00
$720.00
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.
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.
Sold Out
