Scrimshaw, the intricate art of carving or engraving on ivory and bone, played a unique role aboard whaling ships. Sailors often passed time during long and monotonous whaling voyages by crafting elaborate designs on whale teeth or bones, transforming them into unique works of art. These carvings typically depicted maritime scenes and ships, reflecting the lives and imaginations of the crew. Scrimshaw not only provided a creative outlet but also served as a tangible connection to the whalers’ experiences and the creatures they hunted.

Today, scrimshaw is a highly valued art form, now created using alternative materials like resin or ethically sourced bone to preserve its tradition while adhering to modern conservation efforts. Traditional scrimshaw inks were made from lampblack or soot mixed with oil, creating a deep black color to highlight the engraved lines. Modern scrimshaw uses a variety of colored inks, including black, brown, blue, and red, to enhance their designs.

This hat is a tribute to this maritime tradition.