Frame with walrus tusks

frame

SCRIMSHAW & ALLIED ARTS
marad; scrimshaw
USA, CT, Groton
wood; ivory
Overall: 12 1/4 x 13 1/4 x 3 1/4 in.

Wooden frame for photograph portrait of Capt. John Orrin Spicer (1955.951.1); wooden frame set on carved and footed base, surmounted by 2 walrus tusks and a cross at top. Five bone stars (one missing) on base and piece holding frame. Capt. Spicer, of Groton, CT, commanded the NILE on 3 voyages, June 15 - Dec 9, 1874; May 4 1875 - Jan 11, 1876; and June 24 - Nov 17, 1876. On 2nd voyage he was flung overboard by a whale's fluke and almost drowned. On 4th voyage NILE brought only enough to cover the expenses. He made several voyages to the Arctic in New London whaleships, and was a friend of the Eskimos among whom he lived months at a time.

1955.951