19TH CENTURY SCRIMSHAW CARVED WHALE TOOTH decorated on both sides with ships. One side with a port view of an American ship at anchor. Vessel flying an American flag that is lightly tinted red. Main mast with house or vessel flag with a large letter "B". Reverse side with starboard view of the vessel under full sail. Bottom edge of the tooth with foliate designs and the letters "MF" crudely carved in twice. Nicely shaped tooth that measures 7" l. x 3" w. Condition overall good but there is a worn spot in the rigging area of the vessel that's under sail. This appears to be a result of 150+ years of the tooth being stored with this side down. Excellent mellow golden patina throughout. Circa 1840.