Float handle

Date19th Century

Mediumwalrus ivory

Dimensions4 1/8 × 1 3/8 × 1 1/8 in. (10.5 × 3.5 × 2.9 cm)

Donor credit lineKendall Whaling Museum Collection Transfer

Object number2001.100.2283

Institutional Credit LineCourtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum

DescriptionCone-shaped wedge with mushroom pommel carved out of walrus ivory for use as a float handle for whaling, seal hunting and walrus hunting in conjunction with blade floats. The notch around its circumference is to accommodate a seal-hide lashing or lanyard (of which evidence remains).ProvenanceHurst Gallery, Cambridge, MA, 05/14/1998

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