Animal figurine

A carved wooden sperm whale probably made by a seaman. The figure is inlaid with a bone blow hole and harpoon with an attached rope carved into the surface of the wood. A small wooden shield is inlaid on the back. This item could be classified as scrimshaw with other handicrafts produced by the crews of whaling ships.

Object Details

ID: AAA0012
Collection: Decorative art
Type: Animal figurine
Display location: Display - Atlantic Gallery
Creator: Unknown
Date made: Late 19th century
Exhibition: The Atlantic: Slavery, Trade, Empire; Trade and Commerce
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: 39 x 170 x 35 mm