Scrimshaw is a traditional American art form that consists of engravings or carvings on animal bones, tusks, or teeth. Elephant tusks, whale teeth, and even the preserved tusks of woolly mammoths are the most common materials used for Scrimshaw. Many Scrimshaw pieces have maritime carvings and others feature animals.
Scrimshaw started out as a sailor’s art and the first engravings were made on whale teeth, which were readily available to sailors. They became very beautiful and valuable items and were often used for exchange and as currency. In modern times, Scrimshaw has expanded to other materials such as bone, antlers, tusks, and ivory. Scrimshaw art is very complex and it takes a skilled craftsman to create these beautiful works of art. The engravings are carefully carved and include many details of the subject they portray. Sometimes a Scrimshaw print is left smooth and other times it is colored with high-quality ink to further accentuate the details.
Although Scrimshaw is an art that originated centuries ago, it is still practiced today. Antique pieces are extremely valuable, some cost thousands of dollars. Modern pieces are also valuable, but not as sought after by serious collectors as authentic antiques. Due to the enduring medium in which Scrimshaw is created, with proper care, a Scrimshaw piece will last for generations, if not forever. Care and cleaning of the Scrimshaw is not too difficult, but it is important that the Scrimshaw is properly maintained to keep it for life. Ink-colored pieces are especially susceptible to damage and all Scrimshaw art must be handled with care to avoid damaging it. Scrimshaw should be displayed in a dry place, away from moisture and out of direct sunlight. Moisture and sunlight can cause ink to fade and ivory pieces to crack and discolor.
Scrimshaw cleaning is a simple process and should only be done if absolutely necessary. The best way to clean a Scrimshaw piece is to use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the surface. You should not apply a lot of pressure as it can damage the engraving or ink. Abrasive cleaners or cleaning materials should never be used to clean Scrimshaw. Ivory Scrimshaw can benefit from light waxing to help preserve it and prevent damage caused by aging. Natural beeswax is the best type of wax for preserving Scrimshaw ivory and will prevent it from drying out and slow down the ivory’s natural aging process. Only a light coat of wax should be applied with a very soft cloth after each cleaning.
Scrimshaw is a beautiful art form and can be passed down from generation to generation. With proper care, it will last for many lifetimes and its value will increase as the years go by. Scrimshaw treasures make great gifts, and if you already own a Scrimshaw piece, your children and grandchildren will treasure it for years to come. Scrimshaw is fun to collect and will give children and adults a taste of art history.
