Measures just over 10 1/2” this Rope Splicing Tool is a 19th-century whalebone fid. It was a crucial, handmade sailor's tool, often carved from whalebone or hardwood, used for splicing rope, opening canvas, inserting thimbles, and working knots, appearing as a smooth, tapered carrot-shape and sometimes featuring decorative scrimshaw or ownership marks, serving as essential shipboard gear for 19th-century mariners.
Given the restrictions on dealing in ivory, seal tusk etc there has been a surge in popularity in dealing Fids made from whale bine as there are restrictions to dealing. Their value has soared and often achieve around in excess of £1,100.
Measures just over 10 1/2” this Rope Splicing Tool is a 19th-century whalebone fid. It was a crucial, handmade sailor's tool, often carved from whalebone or hardwood, used for splicing rope, opening canvas, inserting thimbles, and working knots, appearing as a smooth, tapered carrot-shape and sometimes featuring decorative scrimshaw or ownership marks, serving as essential shipboard gear for 19th-century mariners.
Given the restrictions on dealing in ivory, seal tusk etc there has been a surge in popularity in dealing Fids made from whale bine as there are restrictions to dealing. Their value has soared and often achieve around in excess of £1,100.
