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Scrimshaw dice shaker cup with image of woman
Scrimshaw dice shaker cup with image of woman

Scrimshaw dice shaker cup with image of woman

Date19th century
Object number00032490
NameDice cup
MediumSperm whale tooth, ink
DimensionsOverall: 55 x 45 x 30 mm, 0.06 kg
ClassificationsDecorative and folk art
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis dice shaker cup was carved from a Sperm Whale tooth and engraved with the image of a woman and diamond. The irregular shape of the piece is due to the natural shape of the whales tooth. Life at sea could be lonely and boring for sailors, often were away for periods of up to five years. Creating scrimshaw and gambling were amusing ways to pass the time at sea.HistoryScrimshaw was originally a maritime craft that developed from the unique conditions encountered onboard whaling ships in the early 19th century. It is produced by engraving, carving, inlaying or assembling bone from marine mammals, such as whale bone, teeth and baleen or walrus tusks and shell. Using jackknives, saws, homemade files or sharp sail needles, sailors would etch images of women, whaling scenes or other memories from home. The average whaling expedition lasted anywhere from three to five years. This could bring about unbearable boredom and loneliness for the sailors. Whalers would fill their long hours by crafting presents for their loved ones back home. They carved designs into whale teeth and bone reflecting scenes of everyday life afloat and the sailor's memories of home. SignificanceThis cup represents the production of scrimshaw gaming items in the 19th century.