Antique scrimshaw tooth attributed to Ceres Artisan A (William Gilpin). The figure Hope aside an anchor to her left and a flag shield to the right of her skirt is depicted beneath a banner reading ” VIRTUE LiIBERTY AND INDEPENDENCE”. A line from the end of the banner is in the beak of an eagle over her left shoulder. The scene is enclosed in a geometric border with a ship within an arch above. The stripes of the shield are highlighted in red pigment. A broadside view of a brig is engraved on the reverse of the tooth. A half-diamond border encircles the base of the tooth. There is a chip at the tip of the tooth which does not impact the engraving, another in the corner of the base, and there are several age cracks. 4 1/4 in. tall.

The mate to this tooth showing a sailor with banner reading “FREE TRade and Sailor’s Rights” is in a private collection.

SORRY, SOLD