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Image courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA.
Image courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA.
King of Norway Scrimshaw
Image courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA.

King of Norway Scrimshaw

Artifact IDMO 63.6111.2
Object Type Scrimshaw
Date before 1961
Medium Whale tooth, wood
DimensionsOverall H 7 3/4 in (19.7 cm)
Physical DescriptionWhale tooth engraved with a profile image of the King of Norway. Inscribed "Christian VI, King of Norway" in gold on the wood base. Tooth is mounted vertically on oval shaped wooden base.
Historical NoteThis whale tooth etched with portraits of King Christian VI of Norway served as a bookend in the Oval Office.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was owned by President John F. Kennedy. Ownership was transferred to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesJohn F. Kennedy Personal Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
On view