Rare American Whale-Tooth and Baleen letter opener (1800 to 1900 North America)

Whaletooth, Baleen, M.O.P

Whalers were affected by political decisions and suffered much in wars and conflicts. The American fleet were particularly affected by the War of Independence and again later by the American Civil War. Many whale-men served on naval men of war and later went back to whaling when the conflict had passed. Recovering after the war of 1812, the American whaling fleet expanded until around 1830 it reached its zenith with 730 vessels whaling worldwide and out numbering all other nationalities combined. So as time afloat increased more time became available for the scrimshaw work practised by the whalers on sperm whale teeth they collected on their voyages.

A Rare American Whale-Tooth and Baleen letter opener, inscribed to the whale-tooth handle; ‘Captn J.Adams Whaler Emma – New York’ the tooth inlaid with baleen and a diamond mother of pearl motif, the serrated baleen blade pierced with an open work cross, a rope work twist joining the handle
Fine colour, patina and condition
Mid 19th Century

Size: 29cm long – 11½ ins long

Please email or call +44 (0)20-7413 9937 for more information or to purchase this item.

FOR SALE