Ingenious Contrivances, Curiously Carved, Scrimshaw in the New Bedford Whaling Museum

Frank, Stuart M.

ISBN 10: 1567924522 / ISBN 13: 9781567924527

Published by David R. Godine Publisher, 2012

About this Item

A Comprehensive Catalog of the World's Largest Collection of Scrimshaw. Contains 700 detailed and dramatic photographs with captions and the stories behind the objects themselves. Includes a Census of the Types of Scrimshaw. Biblio. Notes. Index. 384 pp. Fine hardcover in full blue cloth w/ fine dj Size: 4to. Seller Inventory # 1249

Bibliographic Details

Title: Ingenious Contrivances, Curiously Carved, ...

Publisher: David R. Godine Publisher

Publication Date: 2012

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: New

Dust Jacket Condition: Fine

Edition: 1st Edition

About this title

Synopsis:

This is a superbly illustrated introduction to the finest collection of Scrimshaw in the world. By the middle of the 19th century, the New England port of New Bedford was one of the richest cities in America. Its wealth was derived from a single source - whale oil. The New Bedford whaling fleet was the most numerous and arranging in the world, setting off on voyages that often lasted for years and extended as far as the Antarctic and Siberia. When the whalemen were not engaged in hunting or maintenance, some of their time was spent carving materials harvested from the whales themselves: the teeth, bones and baleen. The resulting practical and decorative objects, often intricately carved and carefully crafted, would provide mementos and treasured souvenirs for loved ones back home, at voyage end. This comprehensive volume, featuring over 700 detailed photos, introduces readers to the world's finest collection of Scrimshaw - held by the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

About the Author:

Stuart M. Frank is Senior Curator at the New Bedford Whaling Museum.