Product Description
Original scrimshaw by Brian Kiracofe on fossil walrus and mammoth ivory
This collection of Brian Kiracofe fossil ivory scrimshaw brings together original engravings by the Store Owner and Resident Artist of Scrimshanders. Each piece is hand-engraved on fossil walrus ivory, mammoth ivory, or a sperm whale tooth, with subjects drawn from Newport and the whaling era: Castle Hill Light, tall ships, whaling scenes, and a mermaid.
Kiracofe leaves the natural bark and weathered edges of the ivory in place, framing each engraving with the material's own history. The fine line work and hand-inked shading follow methods sailors used on long voyages, carried forward through the Kiracofe family's decades of scrimshaw in Newport. Every piece is one-of-a-kind, and sizes range from 1.75 to 5.5 inches.
Available Pieces
- Mermaid, 5.5" on walrus ivory stand
- Lighthouse, 4.5" on walrus ivory stand
- Sperm whale tooth with scrimshaw, 2" (in-store pickup only)
- Fossil walrus ivory with whaling scene, 3"
- Mammoth ivory with tall ship, 2"
- Mammoth ivory with Castle Hill Light, 2.5"
- Mammoth ivory with whaling scene, 2.25"
- Mammoth ivory with Castle Hill Light, 1.75"
Features
- Original scrimshaw by Brian Kiracofe
- Engraved on fossil walrus ivory, mammoth ivory, or sperm whale tooth
- Newport, lighthouse, tall ship, and whaling subjects
- Natural bark and edges left in place
- Each piece is one-of-a-kind
Specifications
- Material: Fossil walrus ivory, mammoth ivory, or sperm whale tooth, by selection
- Artisan: Brian Kiracofe
- Engraving type: Hand-engraved scrimshaw
- Dimensions: 1.75" to 5.5", by selection
- Intended use: Display, collection, heirloom gifting
Care Instructions
Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth. Keep scrimshaw away from moisture, heat, and prolonged direct sunlight, which can fade the ink and stress natural ivory.
FAQ
Who engraves these pieces?
Each piece is engraved by hand by Brian Kiracofe, Store Owner and Resident Artist at Scrimshanders.
What is fossil ivory?
Fossil ivory is ancient tusk material, such as mammoth or fossil walrus ivory, that has taken on natural color from centuries in the earth.
Can the sperm whale tooth be shipped?
No. The sperm whale tooth is available for in-store purchase only. Call the shop at 401-849-5680 or visit us in Newport to arrange your purchase. All other pieces ship normally.
Are the pieces signed?
Yes. Kiracofe signs his scrimshaw, usually near the bottom of the engraving.
Original Newport scrimshaw by Brian Kiracofe, engraved on ancient ivory and made to be handed down.
Made to Order
Most pieces are in stock and ship right away. Items requiring engraving or finishing are completed within a few days, prepared with the same care and craftsmanship Scrimshanders is known for.