This is a model of a clipper ship or maybe a whaling ship? It is made from some sort of scrimshaw possibly. It measures 15 by 15.5 inches tall and wide. The ship rests on a horn or tusk. The material cou;d be resin, but the inside of the tusk has ridges. It is not smooth. The sails have color variations sometimes that are greyish. There are little wires emanating from the sails that can be used to position them, just so. It is a very interesting piece and needs cleaning. I hope no animals were harmed to create this!
unknown/antique store closing
Hi Rhonda,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This looks like cow's horn, which isn't endangered; one way to test if it's real or fake is to hold a hot pin to a small discrete area - if it melts, it's plastic, if it burns, it's horn. Unlikely to be elephant or whale ivory.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A vintage assembled horn masted clipper ship
American or European, possibly 19th Century
The body of a ship rendered from a cow's horn, with headmast, foremast, staymast, topmast and mizzen mast suspended on wires. All on a convex bone base.
15 inches tall, 15 1/2 inches wide
CONDITION: appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: acquired at an antique store going out of business
$250-350*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
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