Another beautiful piece more than likely originating in Portugal, it depicts a three masted ship with a lighthouse in the foreground. The owner “came across this whale tooth at a small antique shop in Branson, Missouri, about 30 years ago. It was delight at first sight! I remember the price tag had “From the Azores” written on it. It measures 6″ x 2.5″, and is heavy for its size. It makes one wonder how many Giant Squid this thing’s clamped onto.”
The owner continues: “…
If you’re a fan of sailing ship rope-ladders,…and who isn’t? Then enjoy, because there’s about 18 of them. “
A beautiful piece. anyone who knows of or knew Bessa? We’d all enjoy hearing more about this artist. Leave comments below.
Update 2020-07-14 – Richard sent me a note via “questions[at]scrimshaw.com” stating: ” M Bessa had a small shop in the town of Praia da Vitoria on the island of Terceira, Azores, Portugal. I was stationed at Lajes Field for 3 1/2 years [approximately 1980] , while serving in the USAF, and spent many hours in his shop talking and watching him work. …” He also sent another photo of on an original M Bessa on a wood pedastal. Thanks Richard!
Richard writes: “I’m glad the owner was pleased with what little information I could provide. It was so long ago, but it brought back lots of fond memories. The Azores is a magical place.I’ve attached a few more pictures. I hope you enjoy them.”
Thanks again, Richard. I hope to someday find my way to the Azores and to Portugal – Lisbon would be a wonderous day trip, though I’m sure the Azores would be where I would fall in love with the culture and the land. Below are a few more pics from Richard:
