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HISTORY / MATERIALS
Arctic Traveler's Gift Shop 201 Cushman St. Fairbanks, AK. 99701 Phone: (907) 456-7080 Email: info@arctictravelersgiftshop.com
WE WRAP, PACK, AND SHIP!
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SCRIMSHAW Scrimshaw History: Eskimo carvers decorated their tools by cutting lines and grooves in to them. When Yankee whalers from the east coast of America sailed into Alaska's northern waters, they brought Scrimshaw pictures etched on sperm whale teeth. The pictures were of sailing ships, whale and lighthouses. They showed Eskimo carvers how to fill in the lines with India ink to make a Scrimshaw picture. Eskimos later added the use of graphite or cigarette ash to give a softer grey tone to parts of the picture. When the carvings are completed, they are polished, and a light coat of paste wax is applied. Whalers also brought the game of cribbage. The Eskimos had walrus tusks, a shape tailor made for cribbage boards. Decorated ivory cribbage boards were born of this encounter. Scrimshaw Care: Dust with a soft clean cloth. Do not immerse in water. Do not expose to chemicals, detergents or direct sunlight. Handling Scrimshaw leaves skin oils on the picture and will eventually yellow it. With reasonable care the artwork will remain clear and bright and can last indefinitely.
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