Featured Help Identifying Fraternal Symbols on Carved Horn

Interesting! I'll have to take a look at a few reproductions -- but to my untrained eye the inking looks correct. I took the photos in the brightest light possible (just outside in the CA desert which might as well be the surface of the sun) and I think that makes the contrast seem stronger than it is. I don't detect ink on the surface. Thanks for the feedback.

 

https://millerandmillerauctions.squarespace.com/stories/2022/3/11/scrimshaw-rarity-by-francis-tansel



old horn , just for comparison ....

 

Thanks for your input. I've done a little research and think that what might be throwing us all off is damage from temperature shifts altering the texture of the horn. Apparently the texture can change quite a bit after a horn has been carved. I'm going to see if I can take it to an expert for in person check -- I'll write again to let you all know how it goes!