10112: c1865 Scrimshaw Lap Desk Monitor & Merrimac Start Price USD 4,000.00 Current Price USD 8,000.00 Time Left - Bid Count 4 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Saturday, August 30, 2008 End Time Saturday, August 30, 2008 Location Thomaston, ME See more about '10112: c1865 Scrimshaw Lap Desk Monitor & Merrimac' Description Current Lot c1865 Scrimshaw Lap Desk Monitor & Merrimac SCRIMSHAW LAP DESK - American ca 1865, oak, whale ivory, abalone shell and silver scrimshaw lap desk. The box is profusely inlaid with the top and front whale ivory inlays depicting the Monitor and Merrimac, also has several patriotic and nautical inlays. Each of the four corners of the lid have an abalone shield design, two abalone five-pointed stars flanking a whale ivory star and pair of abalone and silver flowers. Center of lid has whale ivory inlays of an American shield flanked by a pair of sabers, flanked by a pair of American flags, above is a spread wing eagle and three inlaid stars. The same design motif appears in front of box, most center elements are made of silver, other inlays on top are sailing ships and paddlewheel steamers, each with American flags and a pair of crossed Dalgren cannons. Dovetailed construction with hinged top that opens to expose the interior which retains the original green felt writing surface. 4 1/2" high, 13 3/4" wide, 10" deep, original old finish, typical shrinkage to top, retains original lock and key. Note: Scrimshaw boxes with Civil War naval subjects are extremely rare. Place a Bid!