A GROUP OF THREE ENGRAVED SCRIMSHAW WHALE'S TEETH, 19TH CENTURY |

the first depicting a frigate to one side and two frigates to the other, the second depicting a sailor with a maiden on his arm, the third depicting the broadside of a ship

Sotheby's New York, Important Americana, January 19, 1997, sale 6957, lots 1676 and 1682 (part) 

The tooth showing two ships on one side and a single ship on the other is in overall fine condition, but exhibitions discoloration and minor wear to the surface commensurate with age and use The tooth showing the sailor and maiden has a 1" by 1/2" loss to the tip of the tooth, and also shows discoloration and surface wear commensurate with age and use with few small age cracks at the base of the tooth visible from the back side. The last example, showing a ship in horizontal orientation, was previously cracked in half from the base of the tooth to the tip, but has been reglued. Additionally, this tooth shows wear and discoloration commensurate with age and use, with other age cracks and chips to the base of the tooth. Note Regarding Endangered Species Property containing endangered species will require a CITES license upon export from the U.S. and may require an additional license upon import into another country. There is no guarantee that such licenses will be granted. In the case of denial of any license or of delay in obtaining such licenses, the purchaser remains responsible for on-time payment for the total purchase price.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.