SOLD FOR $22,800

Whaleman Made Abalone, Whalebone and Whale Ivory Scrimshaw And Polychromed Presentation Keepsake Box, circa 1830-1850, a spectacular feat in maritime design and inlay work. The rectangular hinged box totally trimmed in whalebone, the top has an ivory scrimshawed plaque engraved with a spread winged eagle clutching arrows and laurel with banner in beak and budding vine border, sawtooth and star frame. Mother-of-pearl quarter-fans at the corners, diamonds and 8 various designed pinwheels and more. The front and sides have a 2-tier mother of pearl inlaid curtain swag and drop border with dots and stars above a sunburst center flanked by robust cornucopias. Each side with whale ivory posts and ring handles flanked by stars and teardrop wheels. All with saw-tooth base trim supported on four whale ivory turned feet. The reverse inlaid with mother of pearl dots, teardrops and diamonds, 6-point star flanked by 2 American shields with 4-polychromed flags – American, British and others. The underneath pine box trimmed in whalebone straps.
Height 6 in. Width 11 ½ in. Depth 7 ¾ in.