Scrimshaw masterpiece cane with architectural whaler-made paneled capstan-shaped grip walking stick, mid-19th century
InformationScrimshaw masterpiece cane with architectural whaler-made paneled capstan-shaped grip, mid-19th century. This fabulous and rare antique whale ivory cane is inlaid with abalone stars and eight diamond shaped inlays. Below the grip section and cage section is a long tapered section measuring about 24 inches which is made from a narwhal tusk. This section is divided into six sections. The top and bottom sections are fluted and the other four sections are rope carved with a direction reversal of the rope carving. Between each of these sections is a smooth narrow area with diamond abalone inlays. The lowest section is smooth (not carved) and is made from walrus ivory. The section below the capstan-shaped grip has a four-column cage housing five twisted and baleen worm-like rope fluted sections. (WS0267)
Note: The only other example of a cane of this design is in the collection of the New Bedford Whaling Museum.
Condition: Excellent.
Dimension: Length 35.5 inches.
Provenance: The Estate of Eddi Van Auken.
Mid 19th Century
Lot 724
