'Crown of thorns' carved whimsey

Carved wooden whimsey

A 'crown of thorns' wooden whimsey, said to have been carved onboard a whaling ship (maker and date unknown); comprised of 405 interlocking, identical pine pieces, each measuring approximately 3" L x 1 1/2"W, pierced and notched, and one piece unique in shape that serves to 'lock' the pieces together; measures 38" in diameter when formed in a crcle; closely associated with 'tramp art' .