Description:
This incised sperm whale tooth offers is a somewhat rough example of Inuit scrimshaw. Depicting a polar bear on one side, an anthropomorphic head (possibly that of a bear with pointed ears), and a small design (though illegible, based upon the photos provided) between the two carved images, this tooth is a pendant that features drilled holes and a cord. Most Inuit scrimshaw (as well as that of non-Native sailors who likely adopted the art from local Inuit individuals) is much more fine in its carving and design, thus making this piece somewhat odd. Most scrimshaw is delicately carved, and depicts scenes. AP2018

Tags:
animals; whales; teeth

Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=SC+1960.149

Research on objects in the collections, including provenance, is ongoing and may be incomplete. If you have additional information or would like to learn more about a particular object, please email fc-museums-web@fivecolleges.edu.