Caskets Made Of Whalebone

Caskets Made Of Whalebone

Whalebone caskets are a type of burial container that were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. These caskets were typically made from the jawbone of a whale, which was prized for its strength and durability. The process of making a whalebone casket was a labor-intensive one, involving the carving and shaping of the bone into the desired shape, as well as the addition of decorative elements such as carvings and inlays. Whalebone caskets were particularly popular in the United States, where they were used by both wealthy and middle-class families. They were seen as a symbol of status and wealth, as well as a way to honor the deceased. Whalebone caskets were often elaborately decorated, with intricate carvings and inlays of materials such as ivory and mother-of-pearl. Despite their popularity, whalebone caskets were not without controversy. The use of whalebone for caskets contributed to the decline of whale populations, and many people began to question the ethics of using such a valuable resource for a non-essential purpose. As a result, the use of whalebone for caskets declined in the late 19th century, and by the early 20th century, it had largely fallen out of use. Today, whalebone caskets are primarily of interest to historians and collectors. They provide a fascinating glimpse into the material culture of the past, as well as the social and economic factors that shaped it.

Whalebone, Caskets, Burial, Carvings, Inlays

— John Thompson