Overview
A charming piece of folk-inspired jewelry featuring a central medallion with a bird silhouette, suspended from a strand of alternating small pearls and irregular stone chips.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A charming piece of folk-inspired jewelry featuring a central medallion with a bird silhouette, suspended from a strand of alternating small pearls and irregular stone chips.
Story
Sailors in the 19th century passed the long, grueling hours at sea by etching intricate designs into whale bone or walrus tusks, a practice known as scrimshaw.
Maker / Origin
While the specific artisan remains anonymous, this piece is a classic example of the 'Boutique Craft' movement.
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in good vintage condition with the stringing intact. There is some minor surface wear consistent with age on the pendant face, and the pearls (likely faux or low-grade cultured) show typical luster for their age. The organic nature of the stone chips makes them very durable.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375