Carved from the Sea: The Art and History of Nantucket’s Pictorial Scrimshaw
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by Keely Edgington
Scrimshaw, the intricate art of carving and engraving on whale bones and teeth, is a testament to human creativity born from the harsh realities of 19th-century whaling life. This form of folk art originated among whalers seeking to pass long hours at sea, transforming the byproducts of their trade into delicate works of art. Using little more than pocket knives and sail needles, they etched scenes of maritime life, loved ones left behind, and fantastical creatures onto the polished surfaces of sperm whale teeth and bones.
The art of scrimshaw encompassed various techniques, each requiring patience and skill. The pinprick technique (figure 1) rendered detailed designs by making countless tiny holes in the surface, then filling them with pigment, usually lampblack (soot from oil lamps) or colored inks. The stippled effect allowed for remarkable detail and shading. Another common approach involved etching or engraving directly into the polished surface using sharp tools, then rubbing pigment into the grooves. Some scrimshanders (scrimshaw artisans) employed a technique similar to wood shading, using heated metal tools. These diverse methods allowed for a wide range of artistic expressions, from lace-like patterns to bold, graphic images copied from print culture.
The practice of scrimshaw is inextricably linked to the whaling community of Nantucket, MA, where the Decorative Arts Trust hosted an informative and enjoyable Sojourn in September 2024. As one of the world’s preeminent whaling ports in the 18th and 19th centuries, Nantucket became the epicenter of this artistic tradition. The island’s sailors, embarking on voyages that could last years, found in scrimshaw not only a way to combat boredom but also a means of connecting with their distant homes and preserving memories of their arduous journeys. Although the island’s Quaker community is typically associated with austere material culture, the purely decorative pictorial scrimshaw thrived as an art form and also as a collectible through later generations.
Nantucket scrimshaw often depicted the very essence of the whalers’ lives: ships under full sail (figure 2), whales breaching the ocean’s surface, and detailed maps of far-flung ports. They serve as historical documents, offering glimpses into the daily lives and aspirations of the men who created them. The most skilled scrimshanders gained renown for their work, with some examples becoming prized possessions passed down through Nantucket families.
The whalers’ carvings and engravings were not mere decorations, but rather a memento of their experiences and a connection to their loved ones back home. During long voyages, whalers would practice their craft, each iteration a unique expression of their maritime lives. The attention to detail and ability to transform byproducts into art is a testament to their ingenuity and creativity.
By preserving these artifacts, collectors and museums ensured that the stories and artistry of the whalers were not lost to time. Through the study and appreciation of scrimshaw, we gain a deeper understanding of the hardships and resilience of the men who braved treacherous waters and prey in pursuit of their livelihood.
As the whaling industry declined in the late 19th century, scrimshaw transitioned from a shipboard pastime to a sought-after art form. Collectors began to recognize their historical and artistic value, leading to a surge in interest and preservation efforts. Today, museums such as the Nantucket Whaling Museum house extensive collections of scrimshaw of various types, showcasing the evolution of the art form and its significance to maritime culture.
Nantucket scrimshaw reflects the daily lives and experiences of the whalers, serving as a window into the past, allowing us to glimpse the challenges, triumphs, and moments of solace these seafaring men encountered during their voyages. Whether depicting majestic whales, the boredom upon ships crossing vast oceans, loved ones left behind, or patriotic motifs, each piece of scrimshaw is a unique and deeply personal expression of the whalers’ lives.
Scrimshaw has influenced contemporary artists, who continue to practice this art using ethically sourced materials or modern substitutes. These artists often draw inspiration from the themes and styles of historical scrimshaw while incorporating new subjects and innovative techniques. This modern interpretation ensures that the legacy of scrimshaw endures, connecting present-day audiences with the rich maritime heritage of Nantucket and beyond (figure 3).
Although the days of whaling are long past, the art of scrimshaw remains a powerful reminder of Nantucket’s seafaring history and the ingenuity of those who braved the seas. Each example tells a story—of long voyages, homesickness, and the beauty and danger of the natural world.
Keely Edgington is the Educational Programs Coordinator at the Decorative Arts Trust.
A print version of this article was published in The Magazine of the Decorative Arts Trust, one of our most popular member benefits. Join today!