Antique Arctic Narwhal Tusk with an exaggerated twist 'Monodon Monoceros' (1700 to 1800 Arctic)

Narwhal

C.I.T.E.S documentation available for export
See: Finch & Co catalogue no. 3, item no. 40, catalogue no. 7, item no. 129, and catalogue no. 12, item no. 51, for other antique examples

The most curious of all the toothed whales the Narwhal was known in medieval times as the 'unicorn of the sea'. The ivory lance like tusk was believed to have magical qualities and they became precious, prized commodities with every Royal treasury containing at least one example.
This benefited Denmark in particular as the country had direct access to supplies from the areas of Greenland and the North Atlantic where the fabled whale was found. The Danish Kings made great use of these narwhal tusks in their bid to counteract their almost constant shortage of money by turning the 'horns' into cash.

A Fine and Rare Antique Arctic Narwhal Tusk with an exaggerated twist
'Monodon Monoceros'
Fine old patina
18th Century

Size: 159cm high – 62½ ins high
172cm high – 67¾ ins high (including stand)