POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH DEPICTING A WHALESHIP AND A WARSHIP Obverse depicts a highly detailed view of a whaleship cutting..

POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH DEPICTING A WHALESHIP AND A WARSHIP Circa 1845

Obverse depicts a highly detailed view of a whaleship cutting in, with the whale carcass tied up alongside the ship, a sheet of blubber suspended from the rigging, and multiple figures on deck engaged in various activities. Two whaleboats are on davits and the whaleship is flying small pennants from each of its three masts. Reverse depicts a warship in rolling seas. Extensive use of polychrome on both sides in shades of black, brown, red and blue. Rich patina. Length 6.5".

This tooth is similar, and certainly by the same hand, as others signed "J Robinson", who is presumed to be Australian or Anglo-Australian, given inscriptions on other teeth. Examples of his work are in the Nantucket Historical Association Collection, and one pair was sold at Eldred's, November 21-23, 2013, Lot #597.

Provenance:

Ceely Collection, Rafael Osona Auctions, Nantucket, Massachusetts, August 3, 1996, Lot #208.

The Collection of Paul Vardeman.

Condition: Faint age crack/line at base of obverse, not impacting image. Typical uneven 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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