Title
Dysfunctional Couple
Datecirca 1890-1910
Mediumwhale ivory
Dimensions1 1/2 × 5 3/4 in. (3.8 × 14.6 cm)
Object number1948.30.16
Institutional Credit LineCourtesy of the New Bedford Whaling Museum
DescriptionPolychrome engraved both sides. Recto: Woman in fancy low-cut gown with feather or fur trim, holding a pistol in her right hand, pointed at the head of a man with a mustache, wearing a derby (bowler hat), entering a partially open door. Verso: Vignettes: half-length figure of a woman wearing only a corset; three-quarter length figure of a woman wearing a flowered hat, coat with frogs (toggles) and embroidered trim.The recto scene may be intended an illustration for a precursor of the pervasive American folksong (of African-American origin) "Frankie and Johnny" ("Frankie and Albert").ProvenancePart of a collection valued at $10,000 April 1946
On View
Not on view
ca. 1850s
19th Century
19th Century
19th Century
19th Century
19th Century
19th Century
Cole, John R.
19th Century
19th Century
