Ca. 1830s. A large finely engraved sperm whale tooth signed “G. Clapham Scp.” The image portrays a portrait of a lady holding a basket of flowers with a landscape in the background. Above and below the portrait are engraved grape and floral vine motifs. The image was likely copied from a book or magazine. Blank on the verso. 7 3/4″ long. The tooth shows several age cracks and chips along the base as well as light surface scratches. The tooth has a fine old patina. Age appropriate wear. Clapham is listed in Dr. Stuart M. Frank’s book on Scrimshaw artists, which states that he was an English born whaling captain based out of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia and was later a resident of New Zealand. He was a native of Brigg, Lincolnshire England and commanded the whaling brig Tamar of Sydney in the 1830s. Clapham is known to have engraved seven whales teeth. Signed pieces of scrimshaw are typically quite rare. Shipping restriction: Please note this lot is not available to be sold or shipped internationally. It is the responsibility of the buyer to obtain any necessary documentation prior to sale.
