Frost Cutlery folding knife with colorful “African Elephant” scrimshaw-style artwork on the bone handle, in its original gift box. The blade is marked with the Frost Cutlery logo and “SURGICAL STEEL.” It measures 6 1/2 inches open, 3 3/4 inches closed, with a 2 3/4 inch clip point blade, which makes it a handy size for a pocket or a display case.

The handle front shows a large African elephant walking beside a second elephant, with the words “African Elephant” in black script, set against a blue, green, and tan wash that looks like sky and savanna. The black linework is crisp. The handle scales are bone , and the reverse is plain, creamy bone with a natural grain. The knife has polished bolsters, a finger guard, brass liners, and gold-colored pins on the front. The inside of the gift box states “Custom Scrimshaw by O.D.” . my research shows "O.D." was "O.D." was one of a handful of prominent commercial scrimshanders contracted by Frost Cutlery during the late 20th century. 

About scrimshaw: it began as a sailors’ craft in the 1800s, when whalers on long voyages scratched pictures into whale teeth and bone and rubbed ink into the lines. Most modern scrimshaw knives, like this one, use bone, resin, or a printed pattern, because trade in ivory is tightly restricted. Elephants are themselves a protected species, which makes the wildlife theme a lasting favorite with collectors.

Condition: used or unused. The knife is complete and shows good detail. Please note the following. The blade has a few small dark spots and fine speckling near the base and spine. The polished bolsters have speckled pitting or plating wear on the surface. The bone has natural variation, with light staining and fine marks, and the handle edges show some natural darkening. I do not see cracks or chips in the photos. The blade is centered, locks up firmly, no play. The original gift box is included. Note that the foam padding inside the box is crumbling and degrading, so the box is for display and storage only, and I will ship the knife in fresh padding. Some of the foam was stuck to the knife blade and bolsters when I received it. I believe these can be cleaned further to restore a like new finish.

Manual opening. Adults 18 and over only. Ships boxed and well padded.