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Sperm Whale Tooth Riverboat Scrimshaw Casting

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:400.00 - 600.00 USD
Sperm Whale Tooth Riverboat Scrimshaw Casting
For your consideration is a cast sperm whale tooth Vicksburg Mississippi Riverboat Scrimshaw. Scrimshaw began in the late 18th or early 19th century as the art of carving whale bone and ivory aboard whale ships. This is a resin cast contemporary piece. The crew on whalers had plenty of leisure time between sighting and chasing whales, and the hard parts of whales were readily available on voyages that could last up to four years. This sperm whale scrimshaw depicts a riverboat paddle wheeler with the name, Vicksburg etched beneath, one of many which plied the waters of the Mississippi river during the American Civil War, carrying troops, provisions and supplies for the Confederate Army. Riverboats also played a role in the defense of Vicksburg, an important Confederate stronghold that connected the South to the Western states. On the opposite side, crossed swords and revolvers are superimposed over crossed battle flags, an eagle has the swords clutched in its talons, the words, "Vicksburg Mississippi" etched on a ribbon below. This mastodon tooth scrimshaw is in nice condition. The images display intricate detailing with some slight fading exhibited. Measures 2.5"W x 5"H x 1.75", weight 14oz.*