Scrimshaw: Walrus Tusk 1941

This 1941 scrimshaw by Oscar Bluhme depicts a walrus tusk carved with a detailed scene. The tusk is presented in two views, one showing a scene of a woman in traditional dress, and the other showing the open end of the tusk. The tusk itself is the original artwork, with Bluhme’s drawing acting as a record and illustration. Scrimshaw is a form of folk art traditionally practiced by whalers, and often depicted scenes of daily life, landscapes, and portraits.