So I was enjoying a few beers last night while looking at some Sebenzas on the net(I'm sure you can see where this is going ). I had originally wanted to buy a small Sebenza to go with my large, well that didn't happen. Before my rational mind could step in, a large ivory Sebenza snuck it's way into my cart! Ah well, time to go shake my booty on the corner to recoup my money This is my first ivory knife and I'm curious about the care. I assume one would treat ivory like bone in terms of care and handling, but if anyone has suggestions/hints/advice I would appreciate it.
You had better post pics when you get that beauty! I'm not sure if this level of care is required for the inlays on a knife, but this is what I found... Info from The Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute: THE CARE AND HANDLING OF IVORY OBJECTS Important things to know about ivory Ivory - as distinguished from bone, antler or horn - includes the tusks and the unusually large or projecting teeth of animals such as elephant, walrus and several species of whale. It consists of dentine, made up of components which are both organic (to provide the capacity for growth and repair) and inorganic (to provide rigidity and strength). Identification of the type of ivory is based on the composition of the dentine and its specific growth structure. Ivory is very reactive to its environment. It bleaches when exposed to light but the most severe changes are linked to changes in relative humidity and temperature. Low relative humidity causes desiccation, shrinkage and cracking, while high relative humidity can cause warping and swelling. Heat fluctuations induce similar expansion and contraction. These problems are particularly acute with thin ivory objects, such as miniatures. Some darkening or "patina" is the result of the natural aging process of ivory's organic constituents. Because it is porous, ivory is also susceptible to staining. It darkens in contact with the skin or oils and can be stained by corroding metals or other colored materials. Many liquids, including water and cleaning solutions, are destructive to ivory and should be avoided. Handling Handle ivory with white cotton gloves. If these are not available, wash your hands first with soap and water to remove hand oils and dirt. Storage conditions The best protection for an ivory object is a carefully controlled environment, both in terms of telative humidity (RH) and temperature. Ideal conditions are 45-55 % RH and approximately 70° F (21.11°C), with low light levels, at approximately 5 footcandles. Conditions should be kept constant; at the least, extreme conditions or rapid fluctuations should be avoided. Keeping the object in a tightly closed display case or storage drawer provides a considerable degree of buffering against sudden changes in temperature and relative humidity and is protection against dust and dirt. Dark storage also eliminates damage due to light. However, as a note of caution, avoid sunlit or spotlit display areas, closed cases where heat can build up from interior light bulbs, proximity to ventilation or heating ducts, the tops of appliances, exterior walls or cold windows. Storage drawers and shelves should be lined with a chemically stable cushioning material such as polyethylene or polypropylene sheeting. Avoid using rubber-based materials for storage or packing as these can produce unnatural yellowing of ivory. For additional protection, the artifact may be wrapped in unbuffered, acid-free tissue paper, and stored in a sealed polyethylene (ziplock-type) bag. Well washed unbleached muslin or diaper fabric may be substituted for the tissue.
For the first time I don't want to see a pic of the knife, I'd like to see the booty shake instead! haha But seriously, congrats on the purchase.
I saw a video of this one person who had some issues with his ivory inlays getting stained by his jeans, just something to be aware of when you carry it, it probably depends on the type of jeans too.
When I saw the subject, I figured you got drunk and started playing five finger filet with a Sebenza. Enjoy it!
If I was to start collecting sebenzas I would have to give up drinking. I couldn't afford both. Lets not talk about firearms either!
Is this the large white ivory one that was on BHQ? I only ask cuz I was about to pull the trigger on that one before deciding on a small Damascus/Botcote one.
I hope it's the one from plaza that I was told I missed by 12 hours cuz then we'll get some more pictures of that beauty. That one had a raindrop Damascus blade.
Haha, thanks for the comments and advice everyone. I'll take a few pics when I get it. Yeah that's it. Man, I wish I would have seen that one! On second thought maybe it's good I didn't.... lol:tongue:
I have had a small classic mammoth ivory for almost 2 years now and the inlays have gotten quite a bit more yellow...but I admit I don't really "baby" it. I use it and put it back in its slip case and thats about it. So it's probably got quite the collection of my finger oils lol.
OK, it was Friday night for me, and today the mailman hands me a box. I looked at it, and thought WTF???? I opened, and apparently went to the exchange while drunk.....
Well it wouldn't be the first time I woke up to a "surprise" after a night of drinking Nice knife by the way. Tell us more
