Harpoon Foreshaft

Mediumwalrus ivory

Dimensions1/2 × 3 3/8 in. (1.3 × 8.6 cm)

Object number00.200.21

Institutional Credit LineCourtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum

DescriptionElongated lozenge-shaped length of walrus ivory carved and pierced as a foreshaft for a mid-sized harpoon, tapered at each end to fit into sockets at each end, connecting the wooden shaft with the walrus ivory head and slate or (later) steel blade. The bow-drilled hole and ovoid chamfer (countersink) is to accommodate a foregoer line of sealskin rawhide. Surface of the ivory evidences cracking and dessication from use in saltwater environment.

On View

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