The Pirate, Sabrina

“The Pirate, Sabrina” color scrimshaw created on a large piece of ancient mammoth tusk ivory bark by David. Adams. Yes, there were several female pirates. Sabrina, of course, was the creation of a very talented scrimshander. The more one studies this incredible work, the more one sees. Adams’ attention to minute detail is astonishing. For instance, look at the sword’s sheath with a minute emblem on it, possibly captured from a French prize taken by Sabrina and her crew. The detail of the buttons on her coat as will as the swirling cape create a sense of motion. Note the way the wind has whipped here blonde hair to one side as swells pour over the side of the vessel. Sabrina has been in a few sword fights in the past, judging from the scars on her face. This only serves to make her more intriguing. Suffice it to say, almost no nautical scrimshaw collections have something of this caliber and subject matter. A masterpiece by one of the very best working today.