Yoko Gaydos Scrimshaw

Masterfully Scrimshawed Whale Tooth by Yoko Gaydos – 1993, with Coral Stand

This exquisite whale tooth ivory scrimshaw is a standout piece of maritime artistry, steeped in history and craftsmanship. The tooth itself is an authentic vintage whale tooth purchased from the esteemed William Gilkerson in the 1980s—a respected name among nautical historians and collectors.

The scrimshaw artwork was completed in 1993 by Yoko Gaydos, a renowned Hawaiian scrimshaw artist and the resident artist at Mystic Seaport, one of America’s premier maritime museums. Her mastery is unmistakable in this piece—an elegant fusion of technique, tradition, and storytelling that vividly brings the ivory to life.

Measuring 8 inches in length and weighing 2 pounds, this is a solid, substantial tooth, both in size and collectible value. It is presented on a natural coral stand, providing a striking visual base that enhances its display appeal and coastal heritage.

This piece comes with full CITES documentation, making it completely legal to purchase and export, which adds significant assurance for serious collectors and international buyers.

This scrimshaw is more than a collector’s item—it’s a timeless maritime legacy, etched by a master and housed in materials as storied as the sea itself.