PAIR OF SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TEETH ATTRIBUTED TO THE STAR ENGRAVER Both depict a stylized American flag above a spread-wing eagle with...

PAIR OF SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TEETH ATTRIBUTED TO THE STAR ENGRAVER Mid-19th Century

Both depict a stylized American flag above a spread-wing eagle with a banner in its beak and a shield at its breast. Between the flag and eagle are two five-pointed stars, and the same style star is in the flag's canton. The flag, stars and eagle are surrounded by climbing vines and tendrils bearing berries and blossoms. Lengths 4.5".

As discussed in Scrimshaw and

Provenance: A Third Dictionary of Scrimshaw Artists by Stuart M. Frank (Mystic, Ct.: Stuart M. Frank and Mystic Seaport Museum, 2013), p. 269, the Star Engraver is so named because of the distinctive five-pointed stars seen on his known work. Five of his teeth are part of the Nantucket Historical Association collection, and one was sold at Eldred's, July 19, 2013, Lot #623.

Provenance:

Cudahy Family.

Michael Vienneau, Nantucket, Massachusetts.

The Collection of Paul Vardeman.

Condition: Both with chips and age lines/cracks at base.

This item will not be shipped internationally without a CITES permit. Obtaining CITES and any other necessary permits is the obligation of the buyer.

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