Whale Tooth Art Appraisal

Sperm Whale Tooth Scrimshaw with American Patriotic Motif

This item is a large, curved sperm whale tooth featuring intricate scrimshaw engravings. The central design is a sophisticated American patriotic motif, showcasing a Great Seal-style shield with vertical stripes and a stippled upper field, flanked by crossed American flags. Below the shield is a detailed head of a bison or bull with prominent horns, situated above a pair of crossed swords (sabers). The piece also features a hand-inscribed word that appears to read 'Stars' or 'Sears' in a fluid script. The tooth measures approximately 4–6 inches in length and displays a natural off-white to cream coloration with a significant aged patina. The surface shows characteristic signs of aging, including several vertical hairline stress cracks (thermal checks) and some minor chipping at the base. The fine-line engraving is filled with dark pigment typical of 19th-century folk art techniques. The craftsmanship is of notable quality, with disciplined cross-hatching and stippling used to create depth within the patriotic imagery. Based on the style and subject matter, it likely dates to the mid-to-late 19th century, a period highly valued by maritime collectors.