Antique Pair of Shave / Plane Tools c. Mid-19th Century Whale Tail Folk Art AAFA - $950 - (Portsmouth, NH)

Handmade planing tools / mahogany & whale bone / c. 1860s Pair of antique folk art shaves, possibly from a whaling ship's carpenter, c. mid-19th century. With their carved handles recalling the shapes of whale tails, these unusual tools were designed to plane a wooden surface smooth. To reduce friction, the shaving side was made of bone. Given their beautiful sculptural form and unusual refinement, these tools must have been handmade by their owner — perhaps as a way to pass the time on a long sea voyage. Who knows, the shaves may have even worked on Captain Ahab's leg? Musings on their origins aside, the pair of shaves are both rare and unique tools as well as handsome sculptural objects. ConditionVery good antique condition. Measurements10 inches long 2.5 inches tall 2 inches deepFor more pleasing and peculiar objects, follow "oldasadam" on Instagram and Facebook.And if you find yourself in New England, be sure to visit my brick and mortar store in Portsmouth, New Hampshire:Old as AdamAntiques & Vintage Haberdashery33 Ceres StreetPortsmouth, NH

Posted in Portsmouth, NH, Antiques
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