Scrimshaw Walrus Tusk

American, ca. 1850-1865
Scrimshaw decorated Walrus tusk, mounted on contemporary hardwood base.
Over-all in excellent condition.
A large scrimshaw-decorated walrus tusk–likely made by a sailor in the 19th century–with imagery reflective of his time at sea and at home in port. With a central patriotic emblem depicting the Great Seal of the United States,  a spread-winged eagle with shield in front of a series of draped American flags below the abbreviation EPU, other design elements include a three-masted brig of war, a harbor scene, floral and instrumental embellishments, anchor, a sailor’s wife patiently awaiting her husband’s return, as well as a monument or grave and Victorian style home.