Scrimshaw Ivory Jagging Wheel

Pie crimpers or jagging wheels are among the most common scrimshaw items carved by American 19th century whalemen. They were useful, as well as decorative kitchen implements. The fluted wheel was used to cut dough or seal the top of a pie crust to the sides before baking.

This example’s shaft is in the form of a snake or sea serpent, with a tongue in the shape of a three-tine fork. The fork was used to decorate or poke holes in the upper pie crust to vent the steam created by baking.

ID Number:

DL*388597

Material:

scrimshaw

Date:

1800s

Dimensions:

1 in x 6 1/4 in x 3 1/2 in; 2.54 cm x 15.875 cm x 8.89 cm

Source:

Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Arthur M. Greenwood