From:Mokau Museum
Name/TitleScrimshaw Bullock Horns
About this objectThese horns were etched by a prisoner awaiting execution at Auckland Prison in the first half of the 20th Century. The prisoner's jail warden kept the horns and when he retired to Mokau he donated them to this museum. The beautiful etching is known as scrimshaw and is achieved when fine etching is rubbed with ink or ash to make the lines show up. The portraits on the left horn show the prisoner's judge and lawyer and on the right horn show his mother and two sisters. These horns are rare and valuable not just because there are two but also for their fine craftsmanship and poignant story of their creation.
MakerDennis Gunn
Maker RoleScrimshaw carver
Date MadeEarly 20th Century
Place MadeAuckland
Medium and MaterialsBullock Horn; Wood; Velvet; Ink
TechniqueScrimshaw
Measurements H 53.5cm x L 51cm
Subject and Association KeywordsAnimal products
Subject and Association KeywordsHandcraft
Subject and Association DescriptionNicholls
Object TypeCarved Horns
Object numberRA2016.001
Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved