“Canada Goose Goslings” color scrimshaw on ancient walrus tusk ivory artifact by the late Kelly Mulford. Canada goose looks after her goslings as they paddle along. The Canada goose was named after John Canada, not the country. Mulford, one of the originators of contemporary West Coast scrimshaw, created this in 1981. It is from the collection of one of our clients who is no longer with us. Ivory was used as an ice axe hundreds of years ago by people in the Northern Bering Sea Area.
“The First Captain of the Morgan” black and white scrimshaw on ancient walrus tusk ivory by David Adams. Brilliant composition by Adams on this one. Focusing on the hull and rigging draws one right into the scene and compliments the stunning portrait of Captain Thomas A. Norton. This piece of ivory was initially thought to be not suitable for scrimshaw; however, we had it polished and this is the result. Stunning! This was “beach ivory” and the back side has been worn to a smooth surface as it rolled around on the beach. We always look forward to Adams scrimshaw creations and are ever disappointed as can be seen here. Handsome cocobolo stand completes the picture.
“Momma Bear and Cubs” highly detailed carving on ancient walrus tusk ivory by talented unknown carver. Ears pricked forward, all bears sense something. Little details, like the ears, are evidence of a masterful job. This one is a winner all the way around.
“Two Bears with Cub” created by talented unknown carver on ancient walrus tusk ivory. Note how the cute cub has been completely polished, waiting for its winter coat. Nice color in the ivory the result of minerals that have been absorbed into the ivory over hundreds and hundreds of years during which it was buried in the northern Bering Sea area. Fine work.
“Turtle Family Swarm” detailed carving on ancient walrus tusk ivory by talented unknown carver. Seven turtles are all gathered on this one. Dark color in the ancient walrus tusk ivory is the result of minerals that have been absorbed into the ivory over hundreds of years. Note the details on the shells of the turtles as well as their flippers. Amazing amount of work in this one.
“Bear Cubs Underpaw” detailed carving on ancient walrus tusk ivory by talented unknown carver. Whimsical depiction of harried mother bear. Sometimes the cubs are underpaw all the time. Like the playfulness in this carving. Welcome addition to any collection.
“Plethora of Frogs” highly detailed carving on ancient walrus tusk ivory by talented unknown carver. This is a frog family reunion. The way the carver has left the outer color of the tusk to highlight the top three frogs is fantastic. Highly polished ancient walrus tusk gives the appearance of a shiny skin as though they just emerged from the pond. The shape of the ivory indicates that it could have been used as a sled runner, judging from the upturned end. Nicely done.
“Pirate Skull with Cap” detailed carving of pirate skull with cap created by talented unknown carver on ancient walrus jawbone. Jawbone between 500 – 1500 years old found in the northern Bering Sea area. Whimsical carving with the broad grin brings a smile to one’s face.
Notice:
This is ancient walrus tusk jawbone found in the Northern Bering Sea area. The material is 500-1500 years old and is occasionally found in ancient Eskimo camp and hunting sites. The marvelous colors are the result of minerals that have been absorbed into the jawbone over hundreds and hundreds of years. Obviously this material cannot be replenished, making it quite collectible and valuable.
“Bear Cub Follows Mama Bear” highly detailed carving on ancient walrus tusk ivory created by talented unknown carver. Adorable cub follows mama, both intently looking at something unseen. Every day is another lesson for this little guy. Striking color in the ivory, the result of minerals absorbed into the tusk over hundreds of years that it was buried. Excellent work here.
“Grizzly Mom and Cubs” highly detailed carving on ancient walrus tusk ivory by unknown carver. Beautiful color in this piece of ancient walrus tusk ivory, perfect for the brown tones of the bear family. She looks like she has her paws full with these two.