Scrimshaw Market Report August 2026 - Part 1
by Andrew Jacobson
[email protected]
A note on the format. Wherever possible the description used by the vendor is supplied, followed by auction hammer price estimates and the final price, which includes the buyer’s premium. Sometimes, commentary is added by the writer. At a reader’s suggestion, a hyperlink has been added for each item to provide more and better pictures.
Remember collecting is a quality-of-life purchase. Do not spend the lunch money. Images courtesy of the vendors.
To aid their bidders, several auction houses have established their own online bidding platforms that charge a lower commission than the more familiar bidding platforms.
We had a very busy August, here’s a Part 1 wrap-up.
by Andrew Jacobson
[email protected]
A note on the format. Wherever possible the description used by the vendor is supplied, followed by auction hammer price estimates and the final price, which includes the buyer’s premium. Sometimes, commentary is added by the writer. At a reader’s suggestion, a hyperlink has been added for each item to provide more and better pictures.
Remember collecting is a quality-of-life purchase. Do not spend the lunch money. Images courtesy of the vendors.
To aid their bidders, several auction houses have established their own online bidding platforms that charge a lower commission than the more familiar bidding platforms.
We had a very busy August, here’s a Part 1 wrap-up.
August 1, 2026. Rafael Osona, Nantucket, Mass. Americana. Fine Arts
Prices include the 28% buyer’s premium.
Woolie Bully - a bull market for wool work
The following three woolies had a lot going for them beyond size: interesting, atypical compositions and backgrounds
Lot 125 Rare and Important Large 19th C. Sailor Made Nautical Woolwork Embroidery, circa 1850
Early chainstitch embroidered wool-work, with portrait of an English merchant ship, Friendship and Fidelity motto above and below nautical star and pennant designs, attached to original backing material, highly unusual very large size.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362458_rare-and-important-large-19th-c-sailor-made-nautical-woolie-woolwork-embroidery
Commentary: A near six-foot woolie drew around 50 bids and a big price.
Early chainstitch embroidered wool-work, with portrait of an English merchant ship, Friendship and Fidelity motto above and below nautical star and pennant designs, attached to original backing material, highly unusual very large size.
- Height 27 in. Width 69 in.
- Estimate $10,000-$15,000.
- Sold: $23,680.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362458_rare-and-important-large-19th-c-sailor-made-nautical-woolie-woolwork-embroidery
Commentary: A near six-foot woolie drew around 50 bids and a big price.
Lot 126 — British Sailor's Woolie "Two Schooners Sailing Past a Coastal Landscape"
19th century, in molded maple wood frame.
More pictures:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362459_british-sailor-s-woolie-two-schooners-sailing-past-a-coastal-landscape-19th-century
19th century, in molded maple wood frame.
- 13 in. x 18.5 in.
- Overall, 18.5 in. x 24 in.
- Estimate: $2,500–$3,500.
- Sold: $5,440
More pictures:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362459_british-sailor-s-woolie-two-schooners-sailing-past-a-coastal-landscape-19th-century
Lot 127 Sailor Made Woolie of a British Man-O-War
19th Century, with a fleet of schooners in the foreground, molded wood frame with gilt liner
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362460_sailor-made-woolie-of-a-british-man-o-war-19th-century
19th Century, with a fleet of schooners in the foreground, molded wood frame with gilt liner
- 10 in. x 12 in. Framed 12 in. x 14 in.
- Estimate $1,200-$1,800
- Sold: $3,520.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362460_sailor-made-woolie-of-a-british-man-o-war-19th-century
Lot 169. Fine Althea Macy (1901-1971) carved Seven-Whale Species Plaque
included: Blue, Sperm, Right, Gray, Finback, Humpback, Bowhead; incised hanger and signature on reverse. Each whale approximately 3 in. **Note: This item may only be purchased by a Massachusetts resident and will not be shipped out of state.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362514_fine-aletha-macy-carved-seven-whale-species-plaque
Commentary: The market remains robust for these plaques.
included: Blue, Sperm, Right, Gray, Finback, Humpback, Bowhead; incised hanger and signature on reverse. Each whale approximately 3 in. **Note: This item may only be purchased by a Massachusetts resident and will not be shipped out of state.
- Size: Overall: 14.5 in. x 5.75 in.
- Estimate: $10,000- $12,000.
- Sold: $11,840.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362514_fine-aletha-macy-carved-seven-whale-species-plaque
Commentary: The market remains robust for these plaques.
Lot 170. Fine Charlie Sayle, Sr. (1908-1998) carved Wood Ten-Whale Species Plaque
Depicting: Finback, Sperm, Sulphur Bottom, Bowhead, Beluga, Narwhal, Gray, Humpback, Killer, and Right. Each whale approximately 4 in. Mounted on plaque, inscribed C.F. Sayle, Nantucket, Mass. December 5, 1953, in antique walnut frame
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362515_fine-charlie-sayle-sr-carved-wood-ten-whale-species-plaque
Commentary: An early Sayle piece that brought a remarkably strong price for carved wooden whales.
Depicting: Finback, Sperm, Sulphur Bottom, Bowhead, Beluga, Narwhal, Gray, Humpback, Killer, and Right. Each whale approximately 4 in. Mounted on plaque, inscribed C.F. Sayle, Nantucket, Mass. December 5, 1953, in antique walnut frame
- Overall 14 in. x 16 in.
- Estimate: $10,000- $15,000.
- Sold: $9,600.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235362515_fine-charlie-sayle-sr-carved-wood-ten-whale-species-plaque
Commentary: An early Sayle piece that brought a remarkably strong price for carved wooden whales.
August 2, 2026. Rafael Osona, Nantucket, Mass. The Marine Sale.
Prices include the 28% buyer’s premium.
Prices include the 28% buyer’s premium.
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A Smoking Pair of Victorian Ladies
Lot 815 Pair of Polychrome Whale Teeth with Portraits of a Young lady and Gentleman
19th Century red, green and black pallet on young male and female in fancy garb, the verso engraved with full length females in similar green and red fancy dresses, each smoking cigarettes. A single line held by the first female connects to an arbor foliage with birds.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764854_pair-of-polychrome-whale-teeth-with-portraits-of-young-lady-and-gentleman-19th-century
Commentary: Boy did I blow it on this one. I failed to check the backs and missed one of the more interesting pieces to cross the block in ages. The market for portraits of Victorian women died with Tom Mittler, who never saw one that he didn’t admire. The real attraction of the pair are the puffing ladies on the back. When did ladies east of Dodge City take up cigarettes? A scrimshaw first ?
19th Century red, green and black pallet on young male and female in fancy garb, the verso engraved with full length females in similar green and red fancy dresses, each smoking cigarettes. A single line held by the first female connects to an arbor foliage with birds.
- Height: 5 in.
- Width: 2 in.
- Estimate: $2,000- $3,000.
- Sold: $1,920.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764854_pair-of-polychrome-whale-teeth-with-portraits-of-young-lady-and-gentleman-19th-century
Commentary: Boy did I blow it on this one. I failed to check the backs and missed one of the more interesting pieces to cross the block in ages. The market for portraits of Victorian women died with Tom Mittler, who never saw one that he didn’t admire. The real attraction of the pair are the puffing ladies on the back. When did ladies east of Dodge City take up cigarettes? A scrimshaw first ?
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Lot 811 Fine Pair of Scrimshaw Whale Teeth Engraved with Whaling Scenes
19th Century, detailed whaling scene, with pod of whales, 7 boats out, 4 flagged whales and a stove boat.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/fine-pair-of-scrimshaw-whale-teeth-engraved-with-whaling-scenes-19th-century/
19th Century, detailed whaling scene, with pod of whales, 7 boats out, 4 flagged whales and a stove boat.
- Length 4.5 in. Width 2 in.
- EST $3000-$4000
- Sold: $4,480.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/fine-pair-of-scrimshaw-whale-teeth-engraved-with-whaling-scenes-19th-century/
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Lot 603. David Lazarus Polychromed Scrimshaw Whale Tooth, “Sperm Whaling Off Hawaii” and “Nipped in the Ice”
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/price-result/david-lazarus-polychromed-scrimshaw-whale-tooth-sperm-whaling-off-hawaii-and-nipped-in-the-ice/
Provenance: John DeCiccio, Nantucket.
- Length 7 in. Width 2 in.
- Estimate: $2,000- $3,000.
- Sold: $3,840.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/price-result/david-lazarus-polychromed-scrimshaw-whale-tooth-sperm-whaling-off-hawaii-and-nipped-in-the-ice/
Provenance: John DeCiccio, Nantucket.
Lot 607. Robert Spring Polychrome Scrimshaw Whale’s Tooth, circa 1971, signed, R. Spring 71
Depicting a whaling clipper ship, pilot boat, and crew. Blank Back.
*Per Federal Regulation, this item may only be purchased by a Massachusetts resident and will not be shipped out of state.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/robert-spring-polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-circa-1971/
Commentary: A nice trade.
Depicting a whaling clipper ship, pilot boat, and crew. Blank Back.
*Per Federal Regulation, this item may only be purchased by a Massachusetts resident and will not be shipped out of state.
- Length 5 in.
- Estimate: $1,000- $1,500.
- Sold: $704.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/robert-spring-polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-circa-1971/
Commentary: A nice trade.
Lot 546. Set of Four- The Barbara Johnson Whaling Collection Catalogs.
Commentary: This was a shocker. These volumes belong in the library of all scrimshaw collectors.
- Est: $300-$500.
- Passed.
Commentary: This was a shocker. These volumes belong in the library of all scrimshaw collectors.
Lot 575. Pair of Polychromed Antique Bone Sandwich Lighthouse Candlesticks
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764604_pair-of-polychromed-antique-bone-sandwich-lighthouse-candlesticks
Commentary: Haven’t seen the like and by the price I was not alone
Provenance: John DeCiccio Collection.
- Height: 9 in.
- Estimate: $800- $1,200.
- Sold: $3,328.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764604_pair-of-polychromed-antique-bone-sandwich-lighthouse-candlesticks
Commentary: Haven’t seen the like and by the price I was not alone
Provenance: John DeCiccio Collection.
Lot 589-A. Clark Voorhees (1911-1980) Carved Wood Full Body “Moby Dick” Whale
Signed on the reverse Voorhees; note repair of fluke and small portion of fluke missing.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236888388_clark-voorhees-1911-1980-carved-wood-full-body-moby-dick-whale
Commentary: A beat-up standard 18″ Voorhees whale painted Moby Dick white brought out the bidders.
Signed on the reverse Voorhees; note repair of fluke and small portion of fluke missing.
- Height: 4 in.
- Length 18 in.
- Estimate: $600- $900.
- Sold: $2,880.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236888388_clark-voorhees-1911-1980-carved-wood-full-body-moby-dick-whale
Commentary: A beat-up standard 18″ Voorhees whale painted Moby Dick white brought out the bidders.
Lot 606. Folk Art Wrought Iron Whale Hunt Fireplace Screen
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764637_folk-art-wrought-iron-whale-hunt-fireplace-screen
Commentary: This unusual, graphically strong fire screen deserved its strong price.
- Height: 34 inches
- Width: 47 inches.
- Estimate: $800- $1,200.
- Sold: $4,160.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764637_folk-art-wrought-iron-whale-hunt-fireplace-screen
Commentary: This unusual, graphically strong fire screen deserved its strong price.
Lot 672
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Eldred Lot 8098
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Lot 672. Antique Polychrome Cast iron Figural Sailor Nautical Maritime Umbrella Stand
Circa 1920s, with foundry mark impressed on reverse, depicting Jack Tarr.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764705_antique-polychrome-cast-iron-figural-sailor-nautical-maritime-umbrella-stand-circa-1920s
Commentary: Reality check - a slightly different base, but nearly the exact dimensions as Eldred’s July Americana Lot 8098 VICTORIAN CAST IRON "JACK TAR" UMBRELLA STAND Height 27.25". Width 17.25". Depth 9.5". that sold for $7,560. The $704. The Osona price is normal market.
Circa 1920s, with foundry mark impressed on reverse, depicting Jack Tarr.
- Height: 27 inches.
- Width: 20.5 inches
- Depth: 9.5 inches.
- Estimate: $600- $800.
- Sold: $704
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764705_antique-polychrome-cast-iron-figural-sailor-nautical-maritime-umbrella-stand-circa-1920s
Commentary: Reality check - a slightly different base, but nearly the exact dimensions as Eldred’s July Americana Lot 8098 VICTORIAN CAST IRON "JACK TAR" UMBRELLA STAND Height 27.25". Width 17.25". Depth 9.5". that sold for $7,560. The $704. The Osona price is normal market.
Lot 757. Antique Narwhal Tusk cane, 19th Century
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764795_antique-narwhal-tusk-cane-19th-century
Commentary: $2,560 per foot.
- Length 36 inches.
- Estimate: $7,000- $9,000.
- Sold: $7,680.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764795_antique-narwhal-tusk-cane-19th-century
Commentary: $2,560 per foot.
Lot 758-A Whaleman Made Naughty Nellie Cane
Circa 1850, carved antique whalebone with naughty leg wearing a house slipper; the shaft hatch carved above a twisted fluting and ending in a ferrule.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236158618_whaleman-made-naughty-nellie-cane-circa-1850
Commentary: Naughty, but nice.
Circa 1850, carved antique whalebone with naughty leg wearing a house slipper; the shaft hatch carved above a twisted fluting and ending in a ferrule.
- Length 37.5 inches.
- Estimate: $2,500- $3,500.
- Sold: $2,048
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236158618_whaleman-made-naughty-nellie-cane-circa-1850
Commentary: Naughty, but nice.
Lot 768 Whaler Made Star Inlaid Octagonal Grip Walking Stick
19th Century, antique whale ivory inlaid with antique tortoiseshell continuing to a tapering wood shaft with applied tortoise.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/whaler-made-star-inlaid-octagonal-grip-walking-stick-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
19th Century, antique whale ivory inlaid with antique tortoiseshell continuing to a tapering wood shaft with applied tortoise.
- Length: 37 in.
- EST $1,800-$2200
- Sold: $2,240.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/whaler-made-star-inlaid-octagonal-grip-walking-stick-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
Lot 823 Whaler Made Antique Whale Tooth Grip Walking Stick
19th Century, antique tortoiseshell inlay on the elaborately carved married two-piece whale bone shaft.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/whaler-made-antique-whale-tooth-grip-walking-stick-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
19th Century, antique tortoiseshell inlay on the elaborately carved married two-piece whale bone shaft.
- Length: 35.5 in.
- Estimate: $1,250- $1,750.
- Sold: $1,600.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/whaler-made-antique-whale-tooth-grip-walking-stick-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
Lot 760 Whaler Made Peace Cane
19th Century, antique whale ivory carved dove with abalone inlay, on tapering whale bone shaft.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/whaler-made-peace-cane-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
19th Century, antique whale ivory carved dove with abalone inlay, on tapering whale bone shaft.
- Length: 37 in.
- Estimate: $2,000- $3,000.
- Sold: $1,792
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/whaler-made-peace-cane-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
Lot 756 Large Nantucket “Peace” Cane
19th Century, depicting a finely carved antique whale ivory dove, braided brass collar on finely incised whale bone shaft.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/large-nantucket-peace-cane-19th-century/
Provenance: The John M. DeCeccio Collection, Nantucket, Massachusetts
19th Century, depicting a finely carved antique whale ivory dove, braided brass collar on finely incised whale bone shaft.
- Length: 35 in.
- Estimate: $7,000- $9,000.
- Sold: $6,400
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/large-nantucket-peace-cane-19th-century/
Provenance: The John M. DeCeccio Collection, Nantucket, Massachusetts
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Lot 808 Scrimshaw Sperm Whale Tooth “The Shannon and Chessapeak (sic) War of 1812”
19th Century, depicting the battle between the two ships, engraved M.A. Gale C, on the bottom edge; Gale, born in Ireland was the first commandant of the US Marines; he was eventually court-martialed because of drinking and carousing of brothels in DC, the verso depicting a 3-mast brig at sea. The capture of the USS Chesapeake, also known as the Battle of Boston Harbor, was fought on 1 June 1813 between the Royal Navy frigate HMS Shannon and the United States Navy frigate USS Chesapeake, as part of the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/scrimshaw-sperm-whale-tooth-the-shannon-and-chesapeak-war-of-1812-19th-century-the-shannon-and-chessapeak-war-of-1812-19th-century/
19th Century, depicting the battle between the two ships, engraved M.A. Gale C, on the bottom edge; Gale, born in Ireland was the first commandant of the US Marines; he was eventually court-martialed because of drinking and carousing of brothels in DC, the verso depicting a 3-mast brig at sea. The capture of the USS Chesapeake, also known as the Battle of Boston Harbor, was fought on 1 June 1813 between the Royal Navy frigate HMS Shannon and the United States Navy frigate USS Chesapeake, as part of the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom.
- Length: 6 in.
- Width: 3 in.
- Estimate: $10,000- $15,000.
- Sold: $17,920.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/scrimshaw-sperm-whale-tooth-the-shannon-and-chesapeak-war-of-1812-19th-century-the-shannon-and-chessapeak-war-of-1812-19th-century/
Lot 767 Shagreen Walrus Head Grip Walking Stick
19th Century, glass eyes, silver collar, on wood shaft.
For more pictures click here
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/shagreen-walrus-head-grip-walking-stick-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
Commentary: An unusual, striking combination.
19th Century, glass eyes, silver collar, on wood shaft.
- Length: 36 in.
- Estimate: $1,500- $2,000.
- Sold: $5,540.
For more pictures click here
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/shagreen-walrus-head-grip-walking-stick-19th-century/
Provenance: The Estate of Herbert E. Sackett, Bristol, Rhode Island
Commentary: An unusual, striking combination.
Lot 771 Rare American Sailor Made Dressing Mirror
Circa 1840-1860, mirrored silhouettes of probably captain and wife above two drawers, ring pulls and carrying handles on turned feet. All trimmed out in antique whale ivory, whale bone, mother of pearl and wood; mahogany and cedar construction.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/rare-american-sailor-made-dressing-mirror-circa-1840-1860/
Commentary: Did the estimate dissuade bidders? The form does not have the appeal of an inlaid box. Imagine it with a lift top, no mirror and a different result.
Circa 1840-1860, mirrored silhouettes of probably captain and wife above two drawers, ring pulls and carrying handles on turned feet. All trimmed out in antique whale ivory, whale bone, mother of pearl and wood; mahogany and cedar construction.
- Height: 22 in. Width 20.5 in. Depth 9.5 in.
- Estimate: $12,000- $15,000.
- Passed
For more pictures click here:
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/rare-american-sailor-made-dressing-mirror-circa-1840-1860/
Commentary: Did the estimate dissuade bidders? The form does not have the appeal of an inlaid box. Imagine it with a lift top, no mirror and a different result.
Lot 755. Antique Narwhal Tusk
**Note: This item may only be purchased by a Massachusetts resident and will not be shipped out of state.
For more pictures click here
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/antique-narwhal-tusk-2/
Commentary: For the first time in memory a narwhal tusk failed to cross the finish line. Perhaps the low estimate of $3,000 per foot was high.
**Note: This item may only be purchased by a Massachusetts resident and will not be shipped out of state.
- Length: 6ft. 1.5 in.
- Estimate: $18,000- $22,000.
- Passed
For more pictures click here
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/antique-narwhal-tusk-2/
Commentary: For the first time in memory a narwhal tusk failed to cross the finish line. Perhaps the low estimate of $3,000 per foot was high.
Lot 757. Antique Narwhal Tusk Cane
19th Century 19th Century, with silver cap grip.
For more pictures click here
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/antique-narwhal-tusk-cane-19th-century-2/
19th Century 19th Century, with silver cap grip.
- Length: 36 in.
- Estimate: $7,000- $9,000.
- Sold: $7,680 or $2,560 per foot.
For more pictures click here
https://www.rafaelosonaauction.com/antiques/2026-auctions/august-2-2026/antique-narwhal-tusk-cane-19th-century-2/
Lot 859. 1872 Ship Logbook Journal of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Sloop Report
Leather bound…Benjamin H. Sisson U.S. Inspector in Charge, daily entries… 28 April 1872 through 30 May 1874, on station for life saving duty and patrolling Long Island, New York.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764905_1872-ship-logbook-journal-of-the-us-revenue-cutter-sloop-report
Commentary: Revenue Service material is scarce.
Leather bound…Benjamin H. Sisson U.S. Inspector in Charge, daily entries… 28 April 1872 through 30 May 1874, on station for life saving duty and patrolling Long Island, New York.
- Size: 10 in. x 16 in.
- Estimate: $600- $800.
- Sold: $6,400
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/235764905_1872-ship-logbook-journal-of-the-us-revenue-cutter-sloop-report
Commentary: Revenue Service material is scarce.
August 6-7, 2026. Eldred’s, East Dennis, Mass. Marine Sale, Session I.
Prices include the 28% buyer’s premium.
For those of you who’ve been around too long, I’m going all Jackson Parker, the late quantitative Maine Antique Digest decoy writer, and tossing out some rough percentages to attempt to make some sense of the scrimshaw portion of the sale. By my arbitrary count, there was a substantial 192 lots of scrimshaw. 23 lots or 12% passed for an 88% sell through rate. This was a test of how much the market could absorb and at what price level. It was a mixed consignor sale, not a marquee, single owner collection. Several collectors are refining or reducing their holdings. This meant that there were quite a few pieces that had been acquired within the last 5-7 years. It seemed that some of the too familiar pieces didn’t hold their value, but amazingly enough found new homes.
The following lots are either examples of exceptional art seeking high levels or buyers bidding their hearts, along with a reality check.
Prices include the 28% buyer’s premium.
For those of you who’ve been around too long, I’m going all Jackson Parker, the late quantitative Maine Antique Digest decoy writer, and tossing out some rough percentages to attempt to make some sense of the scrimshaw portion of the sale. By my arbitrary count, there was a substantial 192 lots of scrimshaw. 23 lots or 12% passed for an 88% sell through rate. This was a test of how much the market could absorb and at what price level. It was a mixed consignor sale, not a marquee, single owner collection. Several collectors are refining or reducing their holdings. This meant that there were quite a few pieces that had been acquired within the last 5-7 years. It seemed that some of the too familiar pieces didn’t hold their value, but amazingly enough found new homes.
The following lots are either examples of exceptional art seeking high levels or buyers bidding their hearts, along with a reality check.
Lot 2019 SCRIMSHAW PANBONE PLAQUE DEPICTING A FULL-RIGGED SHIP
Starboard view of the vessel at sea. Engraved "M.D. Holmes" below; there are currently no records for a whaleship or master with this name.
Commentary: Reality check. As reported in 217: “The true “head shaker’ was lot 249, a 7-1/4″ x 5-1/4″ badly warped panbone plaque decorated with nice contrast that showed a full rigged ship upon a stylized water above the legend “M.D. Holmes”. It sold to the telephone for a staggering and inexplicable $52,275.” The 2026 market brought the price back to a more realistic number of $3,500 hammer or $4,410 including premium. Simplified, that’s a $48,775 loss. The lesson is do your homework, reach a considered price and have the discipline to not get sucked into a mindless bidding war.
Reference:
A nearly identical example is illustrated in Scrimshaw on Nantucket: The Collection of the Nantucket Historical Association by Stuart M. Frank (Nantucket, Mass.: The Nantucket Historical Association, 2019), p. 53, fig. 4
The Unusual Bring Unusually Strong Prices
Competition was fierce for the seldom seen or unique. It took more than one bidder to push these objects to new heights.
Starboard view of the vessel at sea. Engraved "M.D. Holmes" below; there are currently no records for a whaleship or master with this name.
- Approx. 5.25" x 7.25".
- Estimate: $5,000- $8,000.
- Sold: $4,410.
- Condition: Natural curvature to the bone. Slight chip/roughness lower right corner.
- Skinner, Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts, Americana, August 13, 2017. Sold: $52,275.
Commentary: Reality check. As reported in 217: “The true “head shaker’ was lot 249, a 7-1/4″ x 5-1/4″ badly warped panbone plaque decorated with nice contrast that showed a full rigged ship upon a stylized water above the legend “M.D. Holmes”. It sold to the telephone for a staggering and inexplicable $52,275.” The 2026 market brought the price back to a more realistic number of $3,500 hammer or $4,410 including premium. Simplified, that’s a $48,775 loss. The lesson is do your homework, reach a considered price and have the discipline to not get sucked into a mindless bidding war.
Reference:
A nearly identical example is illustrated in Scrimshaw on Nantucket: The Collection of the Nantucket Historical Association by Stuart M. Frank (Nantucket, Mass.: The Nantucket Historical Association, 2019), p. 53, fig. 4
The Unusual Bring Unusually Strong Prices
Competition was fierce for the seldom seen or unique. It took more than one bidder to push these objects to new heights.
Barreled Over
Lot 2001 WHALEBONE WATER CASK
- Brass hoops.
- Diameter: approx. 9".
- Estimate:$1,000-$2,000
- Sold: $4,725.
Lot 2046 WHALE IVORY CARVING OF A PREENING SWAN
Beautifully carved graceful lines.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/whale-ivory-carving
Commentary: Perhaps the most charming lot in the sale, this crowd pleaser provoked a prolonged bidding war that resulted in a near 300% jump in price from its initial appearance in Aug. 2019 at Osona’s Marine Sale where it was Lot 416 and Sold $854.
Beautifully carved graceful lines.
- Length 3.5".
- Estimate: $400-$600.
- Sold: $3,780.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/whale-ivory-carving
Commentary: Perhaps the most charming lot in the sale, this crowd pleaser provoked a prolonged bidding war that resulted in a near 300% jump in price from its initial appearance in Aug. 2019 at Osona’s Marine Sale where it was Lot 416 and Sold $854.
The Price of eggs has gone up
Lot 2052 Polychrome Scrimshaw Whale Ivory Sewing Egg dated 1851.
Threaded at center, opening to reveal a thimble and a pincushion. Exterior delicately engraved "AM" and "1851" surrounded by a ship portrait medallion, a cornucopia and a basket of flowers, a dove within a garland, alphabets, numerals, flowers, leaves and other flourishes.
Provenance:
August 4, 2022. Eldred's, East Dennis, MA. The Marine Sale. Lot 3220, Estimate $800-$1,200.
Sold: $8,750.
Commentary: Is this the Faberge of scrimshaw eggs? First time out, the price was about 10 times the low estimate. Now it has nearly doubled in value in 4 years. Thus far it is unique. If there are more, this price should draw some to market.
Threaded at center, opening to reveal a thimble and a pincushion. Exterior delicately engraved "AM" and "1851" surrounded by a ship portrait medallion, a cornucopia and a basket of flowers, a dove within a garland, alphabets, numerals, flowers, leaves and other flourishes.
- Length 2.75".
- Estimate: $5,000- $8,000.
- Sold: $16,380.
Provenance:
August 4, 2022. Eldred's, East Dennis, MA. The Marine Sale. Lot 3220, Estimate $800-$1,200.
Sold: $8,750.
Commentary: Is this the Faberge of scrimshaw eggs? First time out, the price was about 10 times the low estimate. Now it has nearly doubled in value in 4 years. Thus far it is unique. If there are more, this price should draw some to market.
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Going for Gold
Lot 2117 GOLD RUSH-ERA SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH WITH EMBEDDED GOLD NUGGET
Obverse depicts two men holding up a gold nugget. Figure on the left is dressed in miner's garb, including a wide-brimmed hat, with his miner's pan, shovel and pick on the ground at his feet. Figure on the right, dressed in typical Mid-19th Century merchant sailor attire including a wide-collared shirt and neckerchief, is holding up his sailor's hat with his left hand. Reverse depicts a sailor wearing a "short jacket" nailing a billowing American flag to the top of a flagpole or ship's mast. Base carved and pierced, the obverse in a cap and bell design and the reverse with wave-like scrolls.
Commentary: Can’t recall another.
For more images click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/gold-rush-era-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-with-embedde_0268d14b72
Reference:
Both sides illustrated in "What Whalemen Wore as Depicted on Scrimshaw" by Judith Navis Lund in the Scrimshaw Observer , Volume 8, Winter 2024, p. 8, fig. 13 and 14. The caption notes "Gold Rush Era tooth with gold nugget" and the article states, "Scrimshaw whales' teeth with embedded gold nuggets were not uncommon", but this is the only example we have examined.
Obverse depicts two men holding up a gold nugget. Figure on the left is dressed in miner's garb, including a wide-brimmed hat, with his miner's pan, shovel and pick on the ground at his feet. Figure on the right, dressed in typical Mid-19th Century merchant sailor attire including a wide-collared shirt and neckerchief, is holding up his sailor's hat with his left hand. Reverse depicts a sailor wearing a "short jacket" nailing a billowing American flag to the top of a flagpole or ship's mast. Base carved and pierced, the obverse in a cap and bell design and the reverse with wave-like scrolls.
- Length 4.5".
- Condition: Some of the pierced border decorations have been professionally replaced. Typical age lines.
- Estimate: $6,000-$8,000.
- Sold: $15,120.
Commentary: Can’t recall another.
For more images click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/gold-rush-era-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-with-embedde_0268d14b72
Reference:
Both sides illustrated in "What Whalemen Wore as Depicted on Scrimshaw" by Judith Navis Lund in the Scrimshaw Observer , Volume 8, Winter 2024, p. 8, fig. 13 and 14. The caption notes "Gold Rush Era tooth with gold nugget" and the article states, "Scrimshaw whales' teeth with embedded gold nuggets were not uncommon", but this is the only example we have examined.
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Lot 2073 MASSIVE POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH DEPICTING FANNY CAMPBELL
Obverse with a full-length portrait of Fanny Campbell, the female pirate captain, holding her cutlass in her right hand and a Jolly Roger flagpole in her left. Image faithfully sourced from the title page illustration of Fanny Campbell, The Female Pirate Captain by Maturin Murray Ballou, published in 1844. Reverse depicts a full-rigged ship at sea, flying a long streamer, pennants and an American flag. Similar foliate motifs above and below primary images on both sides.
Commentary: One of the finest Fanny Campbell teeth. Original cost $18,000.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/massive-polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-depicti_b13dff10fe
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
Obverse with a full-length portrait of Fanny Campbell, the female pirate captain, holding her cutlass in her right hand and a Jolly Roger flagpole in her left. Image faithfully sourced from the title page illustration of Fanny Campbell, The Female Pirate Captain by Maturin Murray Ballou, published in 1844. Reverse depicts a full-rigged ship at sea, flying a long streamer, pennants and an American flag. Similar foliate motifs above and below primary images on both sides.
- Length 8.25".
- Condition: Reverse with old chip at base. Age crack at base of obverse extends approx. 1".
- Estimate: $20,000- $30,000.
- Sold: $31,500.
Commentary: One of the finest Fanny Campbell teeth. Original cost $18,000.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/massive-polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-depicti_b13dff10fe
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
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Lot 2074 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH DEPICTING ALWILDA
Obverse with a full-length portrait of Alwilda, the female pirate captain, holding aloft her cutlass…Reverse with a colorful starboard stern view of a full-rigged ship with green hull and black stripe, flying a streamer, pennants and an American flag. Nicely detailed rigging and transom.
Provenance: Albert Macy Plumb won in a poker game at Gilt Edge MT. in 1900 and through the family. Cost: $9,000
Commentary: The estimate was a bit aggressive for this otherwise desirable subject. The selling price was spot-on for a small female pirate tooth. Pirates, especially female, never go out of fashion.
For more pictures click here:
ttps://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-depicting-alwil_0adc8391c4
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
Obverse with a full-length portrait of Alwilda, the female pirate captain, holding aloft her cutlass…Reverse with a colorful starboard stern view of a full-rigged ship with green hull and black stripe, flying a streamer, pennants and an American flag. Nicely detailed rigging and transom.
- Length 5.5".
- Condition: Age lines at tip, mostly on reverse. Possibly restoration of a small chip at base of reverse. Other tiny chip on base of reverse near edge. Uneven patina.
- Estimate: $20,000- $30,000.
- Sold: $11,340.
Provenance: Albert Macy Plumb won in a poker game at Gilt Edge MT. in 1900 and through the family. Cost: $9,000
Commentary: The estimate was a bit aggressive for this otherwise desirable subject. The selling price was spot-on for a small female pirate tooth. Pirates, especially female, never go out of fashion.
For more pictures click here:
ttps://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-depicting-alwil_0adc8391c4
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
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Lot 2076 SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH ATTRIBUTED TO THE LADY WELLINGTON ENGRAVER
Obverse, titled "La Griffon. Bashante.", depicts a battle between the French navy brig Griffon and the H.M.S. Bacchante, the ships engulfed in billowing smoke…Reverse, titled "Karpee[?]. And. Agrivatio..n.[sic]" depicts a schooner and another vessel run aground. The obverse probably illustrates the capture of Griffon off Cuba on May 11, 1808, and the reverse the Royal Navy revenue schooner Gaspee running aground while chasing the packet boat Hannah off Warwick, Rhode Island in 1772. The hulls of all vessels with deep intaglio-style engraving. This, as well as the elegant script lettering, the fine detailing and the delicate geometric and foliate garlands encircling the tip and base, are all hallmarks of the Lady Wellington Engraver's workmanship.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-the-lady-wel_5A8E104CD3?catalogReferredQueryParam=?algoliaParam=upcoming_lots_lotNumber_asc_prod%255BhitsPerPage%255D%3D180
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
Obverse, titled "La Griffon. Bashante.", depicts a battle between the French navy brig Griffon and the H.M.S. Bacchante, the ships engulfed in billowing smoke…Reverse, titled "Karpee[?]. And. Agrivatio..n.[sic]" depicts a schooner and another vessel run aground. The obverse probably illustrates the capture of Griffon off Cuba on May 11, 1808, and the reverse the Royal Navy revenue schooner Gaspee running aground while chasing the packet boat Hannah off Warwick, Rhode Island in 1772. The hulls of all vessels with deep intaglio-style engraving. This, as well as the elegant script lettering, the fine detailing and the delicate geometric and foliate garlands encircling the tip and base, are all hallmarks of the Lady Wellington Engraver's workmanship.
- Length 6".
- Condition: Small chip at base on edge. Uneven patina.
- Estimate: $12,000- $15,000.
- Sold: $12,600.
- Original cost: $22,500.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-the-lady-wel_5A8E104CD3?catalogReferredQueryParam=?algoliaParam=upcoming_lots_lotNumber_asc_prod%255BhitsPerPage%255D%3D180
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
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Lot 2078 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH ATTRIBUTED TO THE NAVAL ENGAGEMENT ENGRAVER
Obverse depicts a battle between two American ships and one British ship. Subtle image of a fish and a geometric device in the water lower right. Reverse depicts a whaling scene with a whaleship trying out, a whaleboat engaged with a surfaced whale, and another whaleboat under sail on the horizon. The blue-green water, the composition of battle and whaling scenes on opposite sides of the tooth, and the whaleboat sailing at an angle toward the viewer are all characteristic of the scrimshander.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-t_55a988a7a9
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
Aug. 1, 2015. Osona, Nantucket. Marine Sale, Lot 404
Osona attribution to Naval Engagement Artist. Cost: $8,925
Note: A Third Dictionary of Scrimshaw Artists (Mystic, Ct.: Stuart M. Frank and Mystic Seaport Museum, 2013), p. 200-201. His draftsmanship, style and use of a distinctive blue-green pigment distinguish his work from other depictions of naval battles and whaling scenes.
Obverse depicts a battle between two American ships and one British ship. Subtle image of a fish and a geometric device in the water lower right. Reverse depicts a whaling scene with a whaleship trying out, a whaleboat engaged with a surfaced whale, and another whaleboat under sail on the horizon. The blue-green water, the composition of battle and whaling scenes on opposite sides of the tooth, and the whaleboat sailing at an angle toward the viewer are all characteristic of the scrimshander.
- Length 6".
- Estimate: $10,000- $15,000.
- Sold: $6,930.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-t_55a988a7a9
Provenance: Miklos Collection.
Aug. 1, 2015. Osona, Nantucket. Marine Sale, Lot 404
Osona attribution to Naval Engagement Artist. Cost: $8,925
Note: A Third Dictionary of Scrimshaw Artists (Mystic, Ct.: Stuart M. Frank and Mystic Seaport Museum, 2013), p. 200-201. His draftsmanship, style and use of a distinctive blue-green pigment distinguish his work from other depictions of naval battles and whaling scenes.
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Lot 2049 SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH ATTRIBUTED TO THE EAGLE PORTRAITIST
Obverse depicts a man and woman on horseback underneath an eagle grasping an "E Pluribus Unum" banner under the head of a dog and a deer. Reverse with a portrait of a young lady holding a flower contained within an elaborate frame, a distinctive characteristic of the scrimshander.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-the-eagle-po_e09ed91f97
Obverse depicts a man and woman on horseback underneath an eagle grasping an "E Pluribus Unum" banner under the head of a dog and a deer. Reverse with a portrait of a young lady holding a flower contained within an elaborate frame, a distinctive characteristic of the scrimshander.
- Length 5.25". With contemporary stand.
- Estimate: $2,000-$3,000.
- Sold: $1,386.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-the-eagle-po_e09ed91f97
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Lot 2038 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH
Obverse depicts an American-flagged brig under dark clouds, its red hull peeking through the blue waves. Reverse with a portrait of a woman in elaborate dress above flowering vines. Drape and tassel border encircles tip.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-19th-century-le_7c20d32e25
Provenance:
Rafael Osona Auctions, Nantucket, Massachusetts.
Obverse depicts an American-flagged brig under dark clouds, its red hull peeking through the blue waves. Reverse with a portrait of a woman in elaborate dress above flowering vines. Drape and tassel border encircles tip.
- Length 5".
- Estimate: $3-$5,000.
- Sold: $5,670.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-19th-century-le_7c20d32e25
Provenance:
Rafael Osona Auctions, Nantucket, Massachusetts.
Lot 2129 GOOSE HEAD PIE CRIMPER
Wood shaft with baleen spacers and inlaid whale ivory triangles, diamonds and rectangles. Wheel yoke in the form of a goose's head with an inlaid eye. Fluted wheel with an openwork star-shaped hub.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/goose-head-pie-crimper-19th-century-length-7-5_0406c46fcd
Wood shaft with baleen spacers and inlaid whale ivory triangles, diamonds and rectangles. Wheel yoke in the form of a goose's head with an inlaid eye. Fluted wheel with an openwork star-shaped hub.
- Length 7.5".
- Estimate: $1,000- $1,500.
- Sold: $756.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/goose-head-pie-crimper-19th-century-length-7-5_0406c46fcd
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Lot 2007 LARGE POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH
Obverse with a highly detailed scene of whaleship cutting in, with two seagulls floating near a shark attacking the sperm whale drawn alongside the ship, and three whalemen on deck cutting the blubber into smaller "horse pieces". Reverse depicts a sailor and a young lady dancing in front of a garden lattice. Floral garland encircles tip.
Commentary: The new owner got a near 50% discount from the Mittler sale price. The tooth hadn’t changed, but the market had. Fresh to the market from an important collection makes a difference.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/large-polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-mid-19th-_96f5e4755e
Provenance:
The Thomas Mittler Scrimshaw Collection. Mittler originally paid $6,500.
Eldred's, Spring Americana, April 6, 2017, Lot #1002, the Mittler Collection $7,800.
Obverse with a highly detailed scene of whaleship cutting in, with two seagulls floating near a shark attacking the sperm whale drawn alongside the ship, and three whalemen on deck cutting the blubber into smaller "horse pieces". Reverse depicts a sailor and a young lady dancing in front of a garden lattice. Floral garland encircles tip.
- Length 8.75".
- Estimate: $6,000 - $8,000.
- Sold: $4,095.
Commentary: The new owner got a near 50% discount from the Mittler sale price. The tooth hadn’t changed, but the market had. Fresh to the market from an important collection makes a difference.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/large-polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-mid-19th-_96f5e4755e
Provenance:
The Thomas Mittler Scrimshaw Collection. Mittler originally paid $6,500.
Eldred's, Spring Americana, April 6, 2017, Lot #1002, the Mittler Collection $7,800.
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Lot 2115 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH ATTRIBUTED TO THE NAVAL ENGAGEMENT ENGRAVER
Obverse depicts a naval battle, one vessel flying a long red streamer and a red and blue flag, probably a British red ensign. Reverse depicts a whaleship cutting in, with a second whaleship off her bow and three distant whaleboats sailing toward the viewer, characteristic of the scrimshander's work. In addition to these sharply angled boats on the horizon, the blue-green water and the arrangement of a battle scene on one side and a whaling scene on the other are hallmarks of the Naval Engagement Engraver's oeuvre.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-t_3a5e90f20b
Provenance:
The Thomas Mittler Scrimshaw Collection.
Eldred's, Spring Americana, April 6, 2017, Lot #1053. Sold $3,600.
Reference: Illustrated in Through the Eyes of a Collector by Nina Hellman (2015), fig. 52.
Obverse depicts a naval battle, one vessel flying a long red streamer and a red and blue flag, probably a British red ensign. Reverse depicts a whaleship cutting in, with a second whaleship off her bow and three distant whaleboats sailing toward the viewer, characteristic of the scrimshander's work. In addition to these sharply angled boats on the horizon, the blue-green water and the arrangement of a battle scene on one side and a whaling scene on the other are hallmarks of the Naval Engagement Engraver's oeuvre.
- Length 7.25".
- Estimate: $8-$12,000.
- Sold: $5,355.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-attributed-to-t_3a5e90f20b
Provenance:
The Thomas Mittler Scrimshaw Collection.
Eldred's, Spring Americana, April 6, 2017, Lot #1053. Sold $3,600.
Reference: Illustrated in Through the Eyes of a Collector by Nina Hellman (2015), fig. 52.
The Grate and the Near Great
Lot 2127 Inlaid Wooden Nutmeg Grater
Commentary: Another welcome oddity. A utilitarian kitchen implement turned into a beautifully contained, cased tool. I don’t know when we will see another.
- Length 6.875".
- Estimate: $500-$1,000.
- Sold: $1,134
Commentary: Another welcome oddity. A utilitarian kitchen implement turned into a beautifully contained, cased tool. I don’t know when we will see another.
Lot 2140 SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH "LADY OF THE LAKE"
Obverse depicts a scene from Arthurian legend, showing the Lady of the Lake poling a small boat toward King Arthur awaiting on shore. Titled near tip in a scrolling banner bordered by foliate vines. Reverse depicts a three-masted gunship flying a jack and an American flag. Well executed. Fine patina.
For more images click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whales-tooth-lady-of-the-lake-second-qu_bfa84c6124
Notes:
The Lady of the Lake, sometimes known as Viviane or Nimue, is a powerful and mysterious enchantress. She is most famously known for bestowing King Arthur with the sword Excalibur, but she is also said to have eliminated the wizard Merlin, raised the knight Lancelot in her underwater realm after the death of his father, and eventually helped guide the dying Arthur to Avalon after his final battle.
Obverse depicts a scene from Arthurian legend, showing the Lady of the Lake poling a small boat toward King Arthur awaiting on shore. Titled near tip in a scrolling banner bordered by foliate vines. Reverse depicts a three-masted gunship flying a jack and an American flag. Well executed. Fine patina.
- Length 8". Height on contemporary wooden stand 9".
- Condition: Shallow chip at tip. Some fretting and chipping at base.
- Est: $6,000-$10,000.
- Sold: $5,670.
For more images click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whales-tooth-lady-of-the-lake-second-qu_bfa84c6124
Notes:
The Lady of the Lake, sometimes known as Viviane or Nimue, is a powerful and mysterious enchantress. She is most famously known for bestowing King Arthur with the sword Excalibur, but she is also said to have eliminated the wizard Merlin, raised the knight Lancelot in her underwater realm after the death of his father, and eventually helped guide the dying Arthur to Avalon after his final battle.
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Lot 2143 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH SIGNED BY LEMUEL F. RICH
A highly detailed mourning scene wraps around the circumference, centered by a man seated astride a fallen tree under the shade of willow trees…Signed at base "Engraved by L.F. Rich.". Opposite side with "Love" surrounded by a garland of roses at tip and "Love 1850" at base.
Commentary: One of the few signed mourning teeth, it has become a tad too familiar and interest has waned. It dropped nearly 65% from the Mittler sale price. Mittler’s original cost was $12,000. Well bought.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-signed-by-lemue_b97a01a278
Provenance:
The Thomas Mittler Scrimshaw Collection.
Eldred's, Spring Americana, April 6, 2017, Lot #1011. Sold $3,900.
Reference:
Illustrated in Through the Eyes of a Collector by Nina Hellman (2015), fig. 88.
A biography on L.F. Rich can be found in Scrimshaw and Provenance: A Third Dictionary of Scrimshaw Artists by Stuart M. Frank (Mystic, Ct.: Mystic Seaport, 2013), p. 230.
A highly detailed mourning scene wraps around the circumference, centered by a man seated astride a fallen tree under the shade of willow trees…Signed at base "Engraved by L.F. Rich.". Opposite side with "Love" surrounded by a garland of roses at tip and "Love 1850" at base.
- Length 5.5".
- Estimate: $2- $3,000.
- Sold: $1,386.
Commentary: One of the few signed mourning teeth, it has become a tad too familiar and interest has waned. It dropped nearly 65% from the Mittler sale price. Mittler’s original cost was $12,000. Well bought.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-signed-by-lemue_b97a01a278
Provenance:
The Thomas Mittler Scrimshaw Collection.
Eldred's, Spring Americana, April 6, 2017, Lot #1011. Sold $3,900.
Reference:
Illustrated in Through the Eyes of a Collector by Nina Hellman (2015), fig. 88.
A biography on L.F. Rich can be found in Scrimshaw and Provenance: A Third Dictionary of Scrimshaw Artists by Stuart M. Frank (Mystic, Ct.: Mystic Seaport, 2013), p. 230.
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Lot 2040 SCRIMSHAW WHALEBONE DITTY
Pine lid with an inlaid carved ivory heart and a whalebone finger-lapped lip. Whalebone finger-lapped body with a baleen collar. Engraved decoration around body and continuing onto the lip of a three-masted ship flying a long streamer, a stately colonial home and its gardens, a weeping willow, a monument backed by American flags, and a patriotic montage of a spread-wing eagle with banner, draped American flags, a Liberty shield, a drum, a stack of cannonballs and a cannon on carriage. Traces of polychroming. Pine base. Includes a note indicating the box descended in the family of a Nantucket sea captain and contains several of his shirt collars.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whalebone-ditty-box-first-half-of-the-1_9752f0e3fe
Pine lid with an inlaid carved ivory heart and a whalebone finger-lapped lip. Whalebone finger-lapped body with a baleen collar. Engraved decoration around body and continuing onto the lip of a three-masted ship flying a long streamer, a stately colonial home and its gardens, a weeping willow, a monument backed by American flags, and a patriotic montage of a spread-wing eagle with banner, draped American flags, a Liberty shield, a drum, a stack of cannonballs and a cannon on carriage. Traces of polychroming. Pine base. Includes a note indicating the box descended in the family of a Nantucket sea captain and contains several of his shirt collars.
- Height 3.75". Length 7.75".
- Condition: Lid with scratches and edge wear. Inlaid heart with residue causing discoloration. Body with typical age lines and uneven patina. Spot of discoloration
- Estimate: $7,000-$10,000.
- Sold: $8,820.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whalebone-ditty-box-first-half-of-the-1_9752f0e3fe
Lot 2125 WHALEBONE ROLLING PIN
19th Century. Acorn knops. Roller with red sealing wax banding at both ends.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/whalebone-rolling-pin-19th-century-length-13-5_56aa5a3289
Provenance:
John Rinaldi Nautical Antiques, Kennebunkport, Maine.
19th Century. Acorn knops. Roller with red sealing wax banding at both ends.
- Length 13.5".
- Estimate: $800-$1,200.
- Sold: $1,134.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/whalebone-rolling-pin-19th-century-length-13-5_56aa5a3289
Provenance:
John Rinaldi Nautical Antiques, Kennebunkport, Maine.
Lot 2181 SCRIMSHAW WHALEBONE BUSK
Depicts five finely engraved vignettes: a sailor on deck; an eagle with a Liberty shield, arrows and olive branches; a large estate; an American-flagged three-masted ship; and a young girl reading a book while standing on a checkered floor. Lobed top and curved base.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whalebone-busk-19th-century-length-14_5421fe9995
Provenance:
Rafael Osona Auctions, Nantucket, Massachusetts.
Depicts five finely engraved vignettes: a sailor on deck; an eagle with a Liberty shield, arrows and olive branches; a large estate; an American-flagged three-masted ship; and a young girl reading a book while standing on a checkered floor. Lobed top and curved base.
- Length 14".
- Estimate: $2,000-$3,000.
- Sold: $5,040.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whalebone-busk-19th-century-length-14_5421fe9995
Provenance:
Rafael Osona Auctions, Nantucket, Massachusetts.
Lot 2045 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALEBONE BUSK
Depicts a hex design, leafy plants and trees, a full basket, a vacant panel, and a potted plant with heart-shaped leaves and red blossoms in a handled urn. Some images separated by barber's pole banding.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whalebone-busk-mid-19th-cent_8dedd3b9e1
Depicts a hex design, leafy plants and trees, a full basket, a vacant panel, and a potted plant with heart-shaped leaves and red blossoms in a handled urn. Some images separated by barber's pole banding.
- Length 13.75".
- Condition: Slightly warped. Some areas of naturally occurring discoloration.
- Estimate: $1,000- $1,500.
- Sold: $1,071.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whalebone-busk-mid-19th-cent_8dedd3b9e1
Lot 2132 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE IVORY PIE CRIMPER
Pistol-grip handle engraved with a berry vine on one side, an elaborate scroll and vine design on the other side, and a slender vine on the edges. Stepped and carved wheel mount with a dark hardwood spacer and similar scroll and vine engraved decoration. Three-tyne fork and wheel yoke with pique engraving. Fancy ruffled wheel.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whale-ivory-pie-crimper-19th_ca6721b6d4
Pistol-grip handle engraved with a berry vine on one side, an elaborate scroll and vine design on the other side, and a slender vine on the edges. Stepped and carved wheel mount with a dark hardwood spacer and similar scroll and vine engraved decoration. Three-tyne fork and wheel yoke with pique engraving. Fancy ruffled wheel.
- Length 8".
- Condition: Evidence of restoration where wheel yoke attaches to mount. Wheel catches slightly in yoke. Grime and glue residue. Scattered age lines.
- Estimate: $1,500-$2,500.
- Sold: $4,095.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whale-ivory-pie-crimper-19th_ca6721b6d4
Lot 2124 WHALEBONE FOOD CHOPPER
Handle with incised banding. Rich patina and in-use wear.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/whalebone-food-chopper-mid-19th-century-length-6-_9ce8c89ee5
Handle with incised banding. Rich patina and in-use wear.
- Length 6.75".
- Estimate: $300-$500.
- Sold: $1,008.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/whalebone-food-chopper-mid-19th-century-length-6-_9ce8c89ee5
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Lot 2051 SCRIMSHAW BALEEN DITTY BOX
Engraved on lip "Ann F Cottle". Base depicts part of the Taj Mahal, Saint Paul's Church in London, the Great Square of Mexico City, and the American coat of arms with a spread-wing eagle with shield. Joined with carved fingers engraved with foliate vines. Top covered in a red, blue and off-green checkered fabric.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-baleen-ditty-box-19th-century-height-3-_9203714469
Engraved on lip "Ann F Cottle". Base depicts part of the Taj Mahal, Saint Paul's Church in London, the Great Square of Mexico City, and the American coat of arms with a spread-wing eagle with shield. Joined with carved fingers engraved with foliate vines. Top covered in a red, blue and off-green checkered fabric.
- Height 3.5". Length 8". Width 5.75".
- Estimate: $300-$500.
- Sold: $1,134.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-baleen-ditty-box-19th-century-height-3-_9203714469
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Lot 2026 POLYCHROME SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TOOTH WITH PATRIOTIC MOTIFS
Obverse depicts Lady Liberty, a flowing red and white flag and a three-masted ship. Reverse depicts a solider standing on rocks, with a church and other buildings above his head.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-with-patriotic-_7a3c1f369c
Provenance:
Vallejo Gallery, Newport Beach, California.
Obverse depicts Lady Liberty, a flowing red and white flag and a three-masted ship. Reverse depicts a solider standing on rocks, with a church and other buildings above his head.
- Length 5.75". With contemporary stand.
- Estimate: $4,000-$6,000.
- Sold: $4,725.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/polychrome-scrimshaw-whales-tooth-with-patriotic-_7a3c1f369c
Provenance:
Vallejo Gallery, Newport Beach, California.
Lot 2161 IVORY-HANDLED DAGGER
19th Century. Ribbed handle with pique inlay and an engraved heart-shaped terminal.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/ivory-handled-dagger-19th-century-overall-length-_d6996234de
19th Century. Ribbed handle with pique inlay and an engraved heart-shaped terminal.
- Overall length 8.75". With contemporary stand.
- Estimate: $800-$1,2000.
- Sold: $1,260.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/ivory-handled-dagger-19th-century-overall-length-_d6996234de
Lot 2061 WHALEBONE DITTY BOX
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whalebone-ditty-box-first-half-of-the-1_9752f0e3fe
- Height 2.25". Length 6". Width 4".
- Estimate: $7,000-$10,000.
- Sold: $2,898.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.eldreds.com/auction-lot/scrimshaw-whalebone-ditty-box-first-half-of-the-1_9752f0e3fe
August 9, 2026. Amero Auctions, Sarasota, FL. Ocean Winds, Session 1
25% buyer’s premium.
Scrimshaw collectors are spoiled. The bulk of material offered at auction or on dedicated websites is professionally cataloged by the usual suspects, who have years of experience. What follows is a first encounter with an auction house that has little experience in our field. It was a massive, mixed sale that had a strong marine component. It is evident that the consignor enjoyed collecting and spending money. That applied to scrimshaw or scrimshaw-like objects. The catalogers did not have command of the material and did their best to deal with an unfamiliar subject. The auction house is complemented for their due diligence on legal compliance. Perhaps Amero would have been well-served to consult with people more experienced in the scrimshaw world. The sale is an educational study. It is always best to scrutinize material before bidding. Since I did not physically preview the sale and had no previous experience with the vendor, it’s unfair to review most of the scrimshaw.
25% buyer’s premium.
Scrimshaw collectors are spoiled. The bulk of material offered at auction or on dedicated websites is professionally cataloged by the usual suspects, who have years of experience. What follows is a first encounter with an auction house that has little experience in our field. It was a massive, mixed sale that had a strong marine component. It is evident that the consignor enjoyed collecting and spending money. That applied to scrimshaw or scrimshaw-like objects. The catalogers did not have command of the material and did their best to deal with an unfamiliar subject. The auction house is complemented for their due diligence on legal compliance. Perhaps Amero would have been well-served to consult with people more experienced in the scrimshaw world. The sale is an educational study. It is always best to scrutinize material before bidding. Since I did not physically preview the sale and had no previous experience with the vendor, it’s unfair to review most of the scrimshaw.
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Lot 30 19th C. Sailor Carved Bone Cased Erotic Item.
Circa 1850's, parquetry box with scrimshaw plaque inscribed "For My Sweetheart, May You find the pleasure within". Hinged lid opens to reveal a fitted interior to include carved bone phalluses and screw in handle , small round box with scrimshaw "Semper Erectus" and upright arm, small carved ring size 6. Case measures 2.25" h. x 7" x 5". Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177462_19th-c-sailor-carved-bone-cased-erotic-item
Commentary: This cased lot is challenging if one sees what one desires, rather than thinking about the era and social context in which it may have been created. Is this collection something that would have been presentable enough to warrant a labeled top circa 1850? Draw your own conclusions.
Circa 1850's, parquetry box with scrimshaw plaque inscribed "For My Sweetheart, May You find the pleasure within". Hinged lid opens to reveal a fitted interior to include carved bone phalluses and screw in handle , small round box with scrimshaw "Semper Erectus" and upright arm, small carved ring size 6. Case measures 2.25" h. x 7" x 5". Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
- Estimate: $6,000-$8,000.
- Sold: $8,125.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177462_19th-c-sailor-carved-bone-cased-erotic-item
Commentary: This cased lot is challenging if one sees what one desires, rather than thinking about the era and social context in which it may have been created. Is this collection something that would have been presentable enough to warrant a labeled top circa 1850? Draw your own conclusions.
Lot 38 19th C. Scrimshaw Turtle Carapace Mercury 1844.
19th Century ornately scrimshaw turtle carapace. Figural winged eagle and motto over "Ship Mercury 1844" over depiction of whaling scene with the ship. Lower "Free Trade" over compass star, foliate scroll work. Overall measures 24" h. x 19" x 5.5". Sold with custom metal stand if desired, 66.5" h. x 12" x 7". Please be aware of local laws, cannot be shipped out of the United States. Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177463_19th-c-scrimshaw-turtle-carapace-mercury-1844
Commentary: I don’t consider these to be scrimshaw, but people absolutely love them. Remember, it is always good to take extra care when something has all the whistles and bells.
19th Century ornately scrimshaw turtle carapace. Figural winged eagle and motto over "Ship Mercury 1844" over depiction of whaling scene with the ship. Lower "Free Trade" over compass star, foliate scroll work. Overall measures 24" h. x 19" x 5.5". Sold with custom metal stand if desired, 66.5" h. x 12" x 7". Please be aware of local laws, cannot be shipped out of the United States. Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
- Estimate: $3,000-$5,000.
- Sold: $21,250.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177463_19th-c-scrimshaw-turtle-carapace-mercury-1844
Commentary: I don’t consider these to be scrimshaw, but people absolutely love them. Remember, it is always good to take extra care when something has all the whistles and bells.
Lot 59 19th C. French Prisoner of War Bone Ships Model.
19th Century POW prison of war model of a three masted Man-of-War. Carved bone, wood and string rigging construction. 13.5" h. x 17.5" x 5". Sold with custom wood, bone, and acrylic case it desired, 18.25" h. x 23.5" x 10.5".
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683520_19th-c-french-prisoner-of-war-bone-ships-model
Commentary: No one was fooled by the low estimate.
19th Century POW prison of war model of a three masted Man-of-War. Carved bone, wood and string rigging construction. 13.5" h. x 17.5" x 5". Sold with custom wood, bone, and acrylic case it desired, 18.25" h. x 23.5" x 10.5".
- Estimate: $2,000-$3,000.
- Sold: $25,000.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683520_19th-c-french-prisoner-of-war-bone-ships-model
Commentary: No one was fooled by the low estimate.
Lot 45 19th C. Weighted Rope and Whale Bone Walking Stick.
19th Century sailors walking stick / cane. Woven weighted rope handle, whale bone shaft. Overall, 34.25" long. Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177464_19th-c-weighted-rope-and-whale-bone-walking-stick
Commentary: The weighted walking stick was a protective persuader sporting nice ropework.
These do not appear often.
19th Century sailors walking stick / cane. Woven weighted rope handle, whale bone shaft. Overall, 34.25" long. Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
- Estimate: $400-$600.
- Sold: $1,375.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177464_19th-c-weighted-rope-and-whale-bone-walking-stick
Commentary: The weighted walking stick was a protective persuader sporting nice ropework.
These do not appear often.
Lot 90 Antique Ornate Carved Bone Ornate Neptune Walking Stick.
Antique walking stick / cane, Ornate carved figure of Neptune holding trident and two fish over waves handle, embossed gold toned collar. Ebony shaft, bone tip. Overall 38.75" long. THIS LOT CANNOT BE SHIPPED OUTSIDE THE STATE OF FLORIDA.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683565_antique-ornate-carved-bone-neptune-walking-stickis
Commentary: Here is where good faith unfamiliarity with the law leads to confusion. Fortunately, Amero was scrupulously cautious. If, indeed, the stick is antique, it may be shipped anywhere within the U.S. Cites permits are required overseas. To be safe, the sale was limited to Florida .
Antique walking stick / cane, Ornate carved figure of Neptune holding trident and two fish over waves handle, embossed gold toned collar. Ebony shaft, bone tip. Overall 38.75" long. THIS LOT CANNOT BE SHIPPED OUTSIDE THE STATE OF FLORIDA.
- Estimate: $800-$1,200.
- Sold: $5,000.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683565_antique-ornate-carved-bone-neptune-walking-stickis
Commentary: Here is where good faith unfamiliarity with the law leads to confusion. Fortunately, Amero was scrupulously cautious. If, indeed, the stick is antique, it may be shipped anywhere within the U.S. Cites permits are required overseas. To be safe, the sale was limited to Florida .
Lot 92 19th C. Sailor Carved Bone Scrimshaw Trinket
19th Century, carved bone trinket / dresser box with scrimshaw accents, painted silver interior, on four bracket feet. Overall 5" h. x 9" x 6.25".
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683569_19th-c-sailor-carved-bone-scrimshaw-trinket-box
Commentary: Actually, this is not scrimshaw, but a late 18th- early 19th century Napoleonic prisoner of war box. A captured sailor could have made it as easily as an infantryman looking for extra cash.
19th Century, carved bone trinket / dresser box with scrimshaw accents, painted silver interior, on four bracket feet. Overall 5" h. x 9" x 6.25".
- Estimate: $800-$1,200.
- Sold: $2,125.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683569_19th-c-sailor-carved-bone-scrimshaw-trinket-box
Commentary: Actually, this is not scrimshaw, but a late 18th- early 19th century Napoleonic prisoner of war box. A captured sailor could have made it as easily as an infantryman looking for extra cash.
Lot 204 Antique Carved Bone Grasping Hand Walking Stick.
Antique walking stick / cane, eyeball finial over grasping hand handle. Turned bone shaft, overall 35.75" long. THIS LOT CANNOT BE SHIPPED OUTSIDE THE STATE OF FLORIDA.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683723_antique-carved-bone-grasping-hand-walking-stick
Commentary: If antique, why the restriction?
Antique walking stick / cane, eyeball finial over grasping hand handle. Turned bone shaft, overall 35.75" long. THIS LOT CANNOT BE SHIPPED OUTSIDE THE STATE OF FLORIDA.
- Estimate: $400-$600.
- Sold: $1,000.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/236683723_antique-carved-bone-grasping-hand-walking-stick
Commentary: If antique, why the restriction?
Lot 216 Two Carved Shell and Scrimshaw Bone Page Turners.
19th Century, two pieces total to include 1) Scrimshaw whale bone, obverse "Liberty" over maiden holding anchor, net, and shield; lighthouse with American flag; lower urn with flowers. Reverse with whaling ship at tropical location. 10" long. 2) Carved tortoise with floral motifs and initial "N. B.", 9.75" long. This lot cannot be shipped outside the US. Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177476_two-carved-shell-and-scrimshaw-bone-page-turners
Commentary: Obviously, these are busks, not page turners and one is baleen rather than tortoise.
19th Century, two pieces total to include 1) Scrimshaw whale bone, obverse "Liberty" over maiden holding anchor, net, and shield; lighthouse with American flag; lower urn with flowers. Reverse with whaling ship at tropical location. 10" long. 2) Carved tortoise with floral motifs and initial "N. B.", 9.75" long. This lot cannot be shipped outside the US. Letter of provenance or paperwork to be supplied to the winning bidder after the auction.
- Estimate: $200-$400.
- Sold: $1,000.
For more pictures click here:
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/237177476_two-carved-shell-and-scrimshaw-bone-page-turners
Commentary: Obviously, these are busks, not page turners and one is baleen rather than tortoise.