Seam rubber

A seam rubber made from whalebone. This tool is used in sailmaking for producing sharp folds prior to sewing. The handle is carved in a rope twist pattern with a diamond knot beside the head and a stopper knot as a terminal. The head of the tool is carved with the initials 'JK' and 'WB', one on each side. This type of sailor's work is known as scrimshaw.

Object Details

ID: AAC0008
Collection: Decorative art
Type: Seam rubber
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Unknown
Date made: Early 19th century
Exhibition: North-West Passage
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Foulkes Collection
Measurements: 20 x 145 x 50 mm