overall: 5 3/4 in x 3 in x 1 3/4 in; 14.605 cm x 7.62 cm x 4.445 cm
Object Name:
scrimshaw
scrimshaw tooth, whale
Date made:
mid 20th century
Description:
This large sperm whale tooth has a satyr-like male figure with a horned mask posed in two scenes on obverse and reverse in a sexual embrace with a full-bodied maenad, or mythological female figure associated with the Roman god Bacchus. The subjects of this tooth, along with their shading and poses, argue for a modern carver, who worked freehand. In the 19th century Victorian period, such a tooth would have offended contemporary sensibilities; as a consequence, authentic erotic scrimshaw of the period is exceedingly rare.
Location:
Currently not on view
Credit Line:
From the collection of Dr. and Mrs. Wilbur J. Gould
