Lot 589

RARE: Walrus Ivory Scrimshaw Trinket Case

Estimate: $150 - $300

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
Offered in this lot is a rare walrus ivory trinket case with scrimshaw on it. This case, that is shaped like a spool of thread, has an American eagle symbol done in scrimshaw on both side and on the top of the case lid. The eagle is holding branches in one claw and arrows in the other and has flowers and leaves on the breast shield. Behind the eagles head is a sunburst arc with stars. The ivory of this item is in very good condition with no splits or cracks. The lid to this case fits snug. The term “scrimshaw” was coined in 18th Century America aboard a whaling vessel. There are Inuit ivory carving that pre and post-date the whaleman’s scrimshaw, which may indicate simultaneous development of this art form. As whaling faded at the turn of the 19th century so did the scrimshaw trade. However, in the 1960’s President John F. Kennedy’s collection created a revival in the creation and collection of this unique art. The case is 1 3/4" tall and 1 3/8" across the bottom. Please see pictures for an accurate assessment of condition.
North American Auction Company is proud to announce the opening of our new in-house, full-service shipping department. We have listened to you the customer and will now be handling all outgoing packages in our new shipping department. We are confident this new offering will allow for a smooth transition from auction block to your front step. We have partnered with preferred carriers to ensure a safe, efficient delivery that works best with your schedule. Please allow 14-21 days after complete invoice payment is made to package and ship your purchase. After you are notified of your winning bids from our company and your item invoice is paid in full our new shipping department will contact you. Make sure when signing up with our company that your preferred shipping information is up to date as this information will be used to estimate shipping cost. Once the items have been packaged our team will contact you for shipping payment. Shipping invoices and payment will be completely separately than the items invoice. Please notify the shipping department with any alternate request or instructions at mark@northamericanauctioncompany.com or 800-686-4216 ext. 3. For a shipping quote please contact the same information above. PLEASE NOTE a shipping quote price can fluctuate in price. Auction company is not responsible for actual shipping cost being higher than quoted shipping cost. Thank you for trusting North American Auction Co. with your bids and shipping. As our shipping department is brand new please understand that delays can be expected.