38. Marine Ivory Cane
Ca. 1850 The single-piece knob is turned off a large sperm whale tooth in an upright fist, clenching what appears to be a rolled paper document. The fist is presented on an integral, elon- gated pedestal, skillfully crafted with multiple turned rings fea- turing a twisted, different, and well-matched rope pattern. The strong carving as well as the design exemplify the essence of sailor art, revealing the subtle structure of the tooth, soft and unstructured hues, and distinctive radiance. The knob comes on an oak shaft and a long, mighty and spiked metal ferrule. Made by the sailor himself entirely from resources available on the ship, this cane features a minimalist yet strong design and, remarkably, was well ahead of its day. The tooth origi- nates from a whale, whereas the oak would come from a discarded beam. In any case, the cane's attractive, well-used surface, the result of long years of careful use, further distinguishes it. It glows with a note that embodies the innate spirit of a seafaring artist and a hand-contact permeated surface imbued with the marks of enduring companionship. The clenched fist evokes a myriad of opinions that all deserve serious consideration. Here, the previous US law and the long years of a knowledgeable custodian of this cane believed it was emblematic of ‘friendship’ and had historically been used by scrimshanders as a powerful symbol of protection, justice, and strength. The paper roll represents the United States Constitu- tion, a landmark legal document of the Western world. These walking sticks were never used aboard a whaling ship but were popular items for scrimshanders to create. Both valuable and ornamental, they served as keepsakes for family members at home or were sold to quayside traders upon
the whalers' return to port. H. 3 ¼” x 1 ½”, O.L. 36”
$800 - $1,000
On February 10th. 1844 Joseph Dias, boatsteerer and keeper of the log of the whaler “Clifford Wayne,” complained, “Nothing to do but make Canes to support our dignity with we (are) home.” Americans, especially those from New England, have been fascinated by their maritime heritage since the Mayflower brought the Pilgrim Fathers to the shores of Cape Cod in 1620. Maritime industries thrived when whaling was respected and integral to life. Indeed, marine canes are linked to seafaring and commerce, offering a glimpse into US history.
Continental Cane Collection Auction - 81
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