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Lot 144:
Description
A semi-cylindrical section of natural bone, decorated in the scrimshaw style with black pigment-filled engravings. The main scene depicts two three-masted sailing vessels under full sail navigating a choppy sea. In the foreground, two small whaleboats are seen near a spouting whale. A mountainous coastline is visible in the distance, and a large seabird, possibly an albatross, is shown in flight. The reverse side shows two large whales swimming, one spouting a plume of water. The entire decorated area is framed by a continuous border of a foliate pattern. The bone shows a naturally aged, off-white to yellowish patina. The underside reveals a porous, cancellous structure characteristic of large animal bone, likely whale bone. The piece contains inscribed text within decorative scrolls: 1852 and Arctic Ocean.
Length: approximately 20.3 cm.
Condition report:
The piece is in good overall condition. The bone shows natural surface ageing, minor staining, and fine longitudinal drying cracks consistent with its material and age. The engraving remains clear and well-defined with good pigment retention. There are no major chips, structural fractures, or significant losses to the bone.
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