One of a Pair of Scrimshaw Sperm Whale’s Teeth, late 19th Century

late 19th century

This is one of a pair of decorative whales teeth (374507 and 374508). Both are the same size, have similar subjects by the same hand and identical mahogany bases for vertical display. Originally, they would have decorated a family parlor, or a gentleman’s bureau or dressing room. This tooth shows an armored and cloked man standing before a large wooden throne. On his head is a winged helmet reminiscent of both the god Mercury or a Viking chieftain.