Hi eveyone!
Have an item that has me confused somewhat, and was looking for some help if possible. Many thanks in advance!
I have a Scrimshaw type item that I can't quite identify, both in what it is exactly, it's composition, and it's age. If anyone can help, that would be much appreciated, or possibly direct to a forum or website that might have more information. Pictures are attached.
Here is what I know and what I think:
The design on the front is of the RMS Tayleur, and is dated 1853.
The design looks partially carved onto the piece, and partially printed (there are areas that don't seem to have any carving grooves)
I don't think this is a real antique from 1853.
But, the item does appear to be a real animal horn or bone and I don't think it's a whale tooth or anything, because it is more hollow inside than a tooth would be.
Although the bone/horn looks authentic, I haven't performed any kind of testing, like a hot needle yet.
If it is a somewhat contemporary piece, on real bone perhaps, what might you call this item if it is not authentic, antique scrimshaw? (I've heard the term fakeshaw, but that refers to resin pieces).
Any clues? 
Happy Thanksgiving!
Mark
@monday*night*auctions wrote:Hi eveyone!
Have an item that has me confused somewhat, and was looking for some help if possible. Many thanks in advance!
I have a Scrimshaw type item that I can't quite identify, both in what it is exactly, it's composition, and it's age. If anyone can help, that would be much appreciated, or possibly direct to a forum or website that might have more information. Pictures are attached.
Here is what I know and what I think:
The design on the front is of the RMS Tayleur, and is dated 1853.
The design looks partially carved onto the piece, and partially printed (there are areas that don't seem to have any carving grooves)
I don't think this is a real antique from 1853.
But, the item does appear to be a real animal horn or bone and I don't think it's a whale tooth or anything, because it is more hollow inside than a tooth would be.
Although the bone/horn looks authentic, I haven't performed any kind of testing, like a hot needle yet.
If it is a somewhat contemporary piece, on real bone perhaps, what might you call this item if it is not authentic, antique scrimshaw? (I've heard the term fakeshaw, but that refers to resin pieces).
Any clues?
Mark
That's a beautiful piece. Looks real and original....but and there's always a but. Scrimshaw was generally made with whale teeth, or wlarus tusks as opposed to real ivory from elephants.
Unfortunately, the country went a little mad, like many countries, banning anything to do with ivory, thinking in terms that it must be elephant we are talking about, but that's not true. Also many of these artifacts are old enough and should be allowed to be resold. Unfortunately, you have to have all your paperwork in order.
I have a piece I love from China. Ivory children sitting on a wood carved waterbullalo. I have had it verified that it's age is well beyond the restrictions, but the beauty of the piece is magical. Now, that doesn't mean I agree with the slaughter of elephants, but what's done is done and I still think they are pieces of art.
This looks like a cow horn. They come in different colors. Maybe this one was bleached before it was scrimshawed.
I don't think it is bone, ivory, or a whale tooth.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/4-Cow-horn-tips-x4d83-Natural-colored-polished-cow-horns/202263213923
