Scrimshaw Whale Tooth Engraving

Scrimshaw was a popular form of artwork amongst whalers (vessels hunting whales) whose seamen would engrave scenes into ivory or bone, particularly between the years 1830 and 1850. The extensive demand for whale products included oil for new machinery and lamps, and whalebone for corsets. But in an age still dominated by sail, there were long periods of searching and waiting. This particular whale tooth was carved by Frederick Myrick in the late 1820s, and it depicts the whaling ship Frances on its journey to Peru. 

Myrick was a whaler from Nantucket, a small island off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. He spent a great deal of time sailing the Pacific Ocean on the ship Susan, and he is often regarded as the most renowned scrimshaw artist. The canvases, or whale teeth, that Myrick inscribed would have only measured about 4-8 inches long (roughly the size of a popsicle stick)!

Whaling was a dangerous job that involved many physical and economic risks. The job itself demanded great physical strength, and whalers were left exposed to the elements. Often, ships would become damaged, sink, or go missing, causing their owners and agents significant financial loss. For example, the Essex was sunk in 1820 by a sperm whale, and its story ultimately inspired Moby Dick. Despite its dangers, however, whaling remained the foundation of Nantucket’s economy for many years. 

The phrase (written above) on the tooth was a popular saying on the island of Nantucket – one that expresses regional pride and exposes the reality of island life. Alongside the motto are a pair of American flags and an eagle, symbolising American patriotism. It is interesting to see that only 50 years after American independence, an early form of nationalism had begun to develop.

The fact that Myrick used these symbols in all of his estimated 35 whale teeth highlights the growth of national identity in the United States dating back to the Revolution. It is telling that a sailor so far from home decided to commemorate his time whaling in artworks that celebrated his country. Myrick’s work suggests that he felt a deep affection for his local area and a tremendous sense of pride for his nation.

Did you know..?

Nantucket remained neutral in the American War of Independence because its economy relied on trading whale oil with England.