19th Century Scrimshaw Ditty Box and Spoons

A superb sailor made set which was found in an original seaman's chest. The oval shaped ditty box is engraved with the initials T.M. and an "S" surrounded by a heart. It is dated 1883. This is accompanied by two spoons of early form which are engraved on the handles with the initials T.M. and it would appear that the set has been carved by the same hand. Sadly, we don't know who T.M. was and can only surmise that "S" was his sweetheart or wife. Genuine scrimshaw is now very scarce and this unique grouping is a fine example of sailors' art. Box measures 3.5" (8.5 cm.) and spoons measure 8" (20 cm.) and 4.5" (11 cm.)