1871-Dated Sailor Detailed Whale bone Scrimshaw Bursk with Six Major Designs on the dated side, with Hand-Engraved text on the opposite side, measuring about 7” tall x 3/4” wide, Choice Near Mint.
This scrimshaw bursk has superb detail that is very intricate, crafted by a perfectionist. No doubt, this example was made by a British sailor, possibly having voyaged to Japan. On the face side the top image is of a lovely Japanese Geisha, below is a ship’s Anchor draping a British Flag hanging above a naval canon. At center is a large heart being tugged by a man and woman’s hands from each side with the words “True Love” below. Next is a Swann, then a Sailing Ship at sea, and finally a large Sea horse sits above the date “1871”. A short text on the opposite side that is within engraved rope, reads, in full: “From wars, shoals and storms afar, / God preserve the Bold British Tar.” Only slight traces of wear from handling present with choice eye appeal. A museum quality example.