POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH ATTRIBUTED TO THE BATTLE ENGRAVER Obverse depicts an Anglo-American battle between two warships,...

POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH ATTRIBUTED TO THE BATTLE ENGRAVER Mid-19th Century

Obverse depicts an Anglo-American battle between two warships, much of the ships obscured by billowing smoke. Both ships are flying long red pennants and their nation's flag, and figures are visible on deck. The American ship is also flying a "Free Trade and Sailors Rights" flag from the foremast; this flag was flown from the Chesapeake when she was battling the Shannon. Reverse depicts a whaling scene with central whaleship flying a "B" house flag, two whaleboats harpooning visible whales, and other whaleboats under sail on the distant horizon. These whaleboats sailing toward the viewer are characteristic of the Battle Engraver's work. Image of a sperm whale on edge. Length 7.5".

Provenance:

Richard A. Bourne Company, Hyannis, Massachusetts, August 2, 1983, Lot #330.

Richard "Sam" Sylvia, Nantucket, Massachusetts.

The Collection of Paul Vardeman.

Condition: Typical faint age lines at tip. Old shallow chip at base and at tip.

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