Artwork preview

Scrimshaw: Swordfish Bill

Oscar Bluhme

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a long, slender object. It features intricate engravings and designs along its entire length. The sculpture is made from wood, as suggested by the visible grain patterns, and has been adorned with various colored inks, mainly in shades of red and black. The top of the sculpture has a star-like design with initials and symbols, followed by heart shapes and abstract patterns that extend down its body. Towards the lower section, there are images of a small animal and other abstract markings. The colors and carvings give the sculpture an ornate appearance, with various shapes and symbols creating an intricate pattern along the length of the wooden object.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1941
Medium
watercolor and graphite on paper
Dimensions
3471 × 4465 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original