About the scrimshander of your piece:
Donna Wilcox has always been interested in art, and she got her first easel in 3rd grade. She has been doing scrimshaw since 1976. Her works have been featured in several museums, and sold throughout the United States and Alaska
Dog Sled Scrimshaw Ulu
Ancient Ulu Blades were usually made of slate. The handles were made of bone, wood, ivory or antler and often became works of art in the hands of skilled carvers. Ulus were used for cutting meat, splitting hides and making clothing. The materials have changed but the semicircular design that made the Ulu so versatile and easy has endured. Even today many Alaskans prefer the Ulu for its efficiency and ease of use.
The art of Scrimshaw dates back to the whaling days over 200 years ago. Scrimshaw refers to the carvings or engravings done on antler, bone or ivory. This nearly forgotten art is still being kept alive today in the same manner that it was in the past days of whaling to create these scrimshaw ulus.