Why is scrimshaw valuable and collectible?
First and foremost, scrimshaw is fine art, and art has value for its own sake. Also, unlike painting, scrimshaw is done on a unique canvas of ivory, a canvas that is far more valuable than any foundation of stretched cloth or linen. Also, the handcrafting of srimshaw is part of American heritage. It is the oldest of all North American art forms. No other art form in America has a longer history. No other expression of art has such significance or influence on the American spirit.
