Scrimshaw-style carved and engraved whale tooth or bone souvenir with ship motif

Decorative Arts / Folk Art / Nautical Collectible

Uncommon

Identified on November 14, 2026

Estimated Value

$50-$300 if bone or modern souvenir; $500-$2,500+ if verified antique whale ivory/scrimshaw with documented age and lawful provenance

The object appears to be a tooth-shaped decorative piece featuring a hand-engraved nautical scene of a full-rigged sailing ship beneath an eagle crest and banner reading 'FLYING CLOUD.' The artwork resembles scrimshaw, a traditional form of engraving and ink work on whale tooth, bone, or similar material. The lines are fine and dark, with a folk-art quality. The shape, yellowed patina, and maritime imagery are consistent with whaling-era or later scrimshaw-inspired souvenir work. The lower edge shows damage, and the interior cavity/opening at the base suggests it may be a hollowed tooth, carved bone, or a decorative replica.

Era

Likely late 19th century to mid-20th century; exact date unknown

Origin

Possibly United States or North Atlantic whaling tradition; exact origin unknown

Material

Likely ivory, bone, or resin imitation ivory; appears to be a carved tooth-shaped piece with engraved ink decoration

Condition

Fair. Visible wear and age toning, with a chipped or broken lower edge and possible surface abrasion. Decoration remains legible, but the base is damaged and the exact material cannot be confirmed from the image alone.

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Physical Details

Dimensions

Approximately 6-8 inches tall and 3-4 inches wide, based on visual scale

Weight

Light to Medium

Authentication

Authenticity Score

Medium-Low. The piece has the visual character of scrimshaw, but the material cannot be verified from the image, and it may be a later decorative reproduction or souvenir rather than a genuine antique whale ivory example.

Provenance

Likely inspired by American whaling or maritime souvenir traditions. The ship name 'Flying Cloud' may reference the famous clipper ship Flying Cloud, a common subject in nautical art and scrimshaw. Exact provenance cannot be determined from the image alone.

Historical Significance

Scrimshaw is historically associated with 19th-century whalers and sailors, who engraved whale teeth, bone, and baleen during long voyages. Nautical pieces featuring ships and patriotic emblems are especially common motifs. If authentic and antique, this type of object has cultural significance as a maritime folk-art artifact.

Restoration Notes

•No clear restoration visible
•Lower edge appears chipped or broken
•Possible surface wear consistent with age or handling

Learn more about this type of antique

This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.