Scrimshawed Walrus Tooth (likely Cape Verde whaler work). Folk-carved motifs. 19th–early 20th century. DESCRIPTION A hand-engraved walrus tooth featuring traditional folk scrimshaw motifs, including palm foliage, geometric banding and a small tricolour flag. The decoration is characteristic of the work produced by Cape Verdean seamen who served on Atlantic and New England whaling ships from the mid-19th to early 20th century. These sailors were well known for combining African and Caribbean imagery with maritime folk art, and their pieces are today regarded as an important part of whaling history. The piece fluoresces strongly under UV light, consistent with natural dentine material. The weight (approximately 300 g) and structure indicate walrus tooth rather than horn. The interior shows the typical hollow pulp cavity and thick dentine walls associated with walrus teeth. The scrimshaw is lightly executed in the traditional manner using fine line incision and pigment rubbing. Subjects include a palm tree with fruiting branches, a stylised hut or structure, and a geometric triangle border. The imagery aligns with motifs seen in Cape Verdean folk carving and is often associated with whalers working out of New Bedford, Nantucket and the Caribbean. Condition: Age-related wear, surface marks, and a loss at the base where the pulp cavity opens. Stable cracks from age and shrinkage. All commensurate with an antique working piece of dentine. Material: Walrus tooth (dentine) Length: approx. 14 cm Weight: approx. 300 g Origin: Atlantic whaling tradition, possibly Cape Verdean sailor’s work Period: 19th to early 20th century (estimated) This item will be securely packaged and shipped with tracking.