A rare sailors scrimshaw whalebone walking cane second quarter 19th century

the octagonal handle stamped with the name 'T.E. Duffor' above a collar of baleen inlay and spiral carved shaft, together with a silver mounted ivory and ebony gentlemans walking cane, 19th century and a Victorian ivory mounted malacca walking cane with silk hanging chord and a modern carved stag horn walking stick of typical form (4)

An interesting and decorative group. Scrimshaw cane: Losses and fragmenting to ivory handle where it joins the shaft. Usual wear and tear to stem including very minor chips and tip lacking. Silver mounted cane: Ivory handle has discolouration to old cracks, silver marks rubbed and small dent. Repaired chip on the shaft. Ivory mounted malacca cane: Good condition with only expected wear and tear. Modern stag cane: Good condition with only expected wear, which includes small indents.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Perhaps the most recognisable of all maritime crafts, 'scrimshaw' developed within the large number of whaling fleets from the eastern seaboard of the US and several British ports. The raw materials were ready to hand and producing these finely wrought handicrafts occupied the talented sailors spare time. Baleen, a black flexible bone sourced from the roof of the mouth of the baleen whale, was also employed as seen here to offer a contrast to the flecked cream of the bone used. What is particularly charming about the offered lot are the stamped letters 'T.E. DUFFOR'; the name of the maker or that of the recipient of whom this may have been made as a very special and exotic gift.