Scrimshaw Treasures

Scrimshaw is a traditional American art form that is etchings or carvings on bone, tusks, or animal teeth. Elephant tusks, whale teeth, and even the preserved tusks of woolly mammoths are the most common materials used for Scrimshaw.
Scrimshaw started as a seaman's art and the first etchings were done on whale teeth, which were readily available to sailors. They became very beautiful and valuable items and were often used to barter and as currency. In modern times Scrimshaw has expanded to other materials such as bone, antlers, tusks, and ivory.
Pieces colored with ink are especially susceptible to damage and all Scrimshaw art should be handled carefully to avoid damaging it. Scrimshaw should be displayed in a dry place, away from moisture and out of direct sunlight. Moisture and sunlight can cause the ink to fade and can cause pieces made of ivory crack and discolor.

Cleaning Scrimshaw is a simple process, and should only be done if it is absolutely necessary. The best way to clean a Scrimshaw piece is to use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently wipe the surface clean. You should not apply much pressure as it can damage the etching or ink. Abrasive cleansers or cleaning materials should never be used to clean Scrimshaw. Ivory Scrimshaw can benefit from light waxing to help preserve it and prevent damage caused by aging. Natural beeswax is the best type of wax to use to preserve ivory and will prevent drying and slow down the ivory's natural aging process. Only a light coat of wax should be applied with a very soft cloth after each cleaning.