The Whaler “Essex”

“The Whaler “Essex” black and white scrimshaw on large sperm whale’s tooth by David Adams. Essex was sunk by a bull sperm whale in 1820, providing inspiration for Melville’s “Moby Dick”. Really like the way Adams has used the natural color of the tooth for the title. Nice touch. The well done remarque on the back depicts a whaler looking ahead. The tooth weighs a hefty 435 grams! The actual story of the fate of the 20 man crew is amazing as well. After abandoning the sinking vessel they spent a month at sea before landing on Henderson Island. Three men decided to stay while the rest headed for South America. Five died and were eaten. Rough time, indeed.

NOTICE

This scrimshaw is done on a sperm whale’s tooth. Federal legislation bans the interstate shipment of whale ivory. It can only be shipped intrastate (within the state). All of our whale ivory is located with our associate in the state of Florida. It can be purchased directly from our website and shipped only to an address within the state of Florida. If one has a relative, trusted friend or business associate within the state of Florida, we can ship to that specified address in order to comply with Federal legislation. The scrimshaw can then be forwarded to you and everyone complies with the law. Any questions, email or call us.