Skip to main content

Scrimshaw

Artifact IDMO 63.6112
Object Type Scrimshaw
Date before 1960
Medium Whale tooth
DimensionsOverall H 8 1/2 in (21.6 cm )

Physical DescriptionWhale tooth engraved a frigate running before the wind under full sail on front. The back is engraved in black and red image of a woman in a full length dress with a checkered apron holding a tiny parasol in her right hand and handkerchief in her left. President Kennedy kept this piece on his desk in the Oval Office.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThis piece of scrimshaw was given to the President by his friend, Lem Billings. President Kennedy kept this piece in the Oval Office of the White House.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteThis material is not subject to any known copyright or other image use restrictions.
Subjects
On view