Oval Hummingbird and Floral Scrimshaw Pill Box
Decorative Art; Trinket/Pill Box • Unidentified artisan; likely commercial production from a giftware company (e.g., similar to Halcyon Days or regional scrimshaw gift makers)
Style & Movement
Traditional Folk Art Revival; Nautical/Whaling aesthetic adapted for functional giftware
Medium & Technique
Brass base with a synthetic polymer or bovine bone lid; Scrimshaw engraving technique (etching and inking)
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 2 inches wide x 1.5 inches deep x 0.75 inches high; Oval format
Subject Description
The lid features a central hummingbird in mid-flight approaching a cluster of bell-shaped flowers (possibly fuchsias or lilies). The composition uses fine cross-hatching and stippling to create tonal depth, characteristic of late-period scrimshaw styles.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the lid shows slight yellowing consistent with age, and the brass base shows minor surface scratches and oxidation.
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $65
Auction Estimate
$20 - $40
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a souvenir or high-end giftware item from a coastal boutique or specialty catalog. No specific ownership history visible.
Art Historical Significance
This piece represents the mid-to-late 20th-century commercialization of scrimshaw techniques, transitioning from traditional whale ivory (banned under the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act) to alternative materials like polished bone or 'faux-ivory' resins.
Notable Features
Fine monochromatic detailing on the lid; seamless hinge construction; non-original subject matter (hummingbird) for a traditionally maritime-themed art form.
Condition Issues
Minor brass tarnishing; light surface abrasions on the lid; slight accumulation of dust in the etched grooves.
Conservation Recommendations
Do not use harsh chemical cleaners on the lid; clean brass with a soft microfiber cloth. Store in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation of the metal base.