#73 • An Important & Large Scrimshaw Cribbage Board - Billy Komonaseak

Part of December 2025 Premier Auction (live auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $2,300.00

Status: Sold

Category: Ethnographic Objects

A highly ornate and historically significant walrus tusk cribbage board - the finest cribbage board we have brought to market. This fabulous piece, c.1910 to 1920 is by Billy Komonaseak (1884-1943), as confirmed to the seller by a curator from the University of Alaska Museum, which has a similar piece by the same artist. It is heavily scrimshawed with black India ink, the top side with a story panel scene on the tip half, and the reverse with depictions of fishermen, hunters, and mushers with sled dogs. A hidden playing peg storage compartment is located at the widest end; the bottom has a small tusk foot affixed for stability. Tusk measures approximately 3" x 2" x 31.5" long.