Scrimshaw walking stick carved with a barleytwist shaft

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Scrimshaw walking stick carved with a barleytwist shaft

Datemid 19th Century

Object number00032494

NameWalking stick

MediumWhalebone, baleen

DimensionsOverall: 865 x 90 x 20 mm, 0.3 kg
Display Dimensions: 20 x 865 mm

ClassificationsDecorative and folk art

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionWalking sticks were fashionable accessories for men in the 19th century. This stick features a barleytwist shaft made from whalebone and a handle carved from whale tooth in the shape of a horses horfetlock (leg)and hoof. The creativity of scrimshanders is evident in the variety of styles, combination of materials and intricate carvings on walking sticks.HistoryScrimshaw is a maritime folk art tradition that developed on American whaling ships in the 19th century. It helped sailors deal with the isolation and loneliness of being at sea onboard whaling expeditions that could take up to five years. Scrimshaw is produced by engraving and carving material from marine animals, such as whale bone, teeth and baleen, walrus tusks and shell. Using jackknives, saws or homemade files sailors would etch images of women, whaling scenes or memories of home. Whalers often made functional objects like canes, needles, cutlery, cups or containers.SignificanceThis piece represents the scrimshaw production of walking sticks and the common design elements of horse-leg handles and barleytwist shafts.