Large Narwhal tooth (Monodon monoceros) - Lot 576

Lot 576
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Estimation :
5000 - 7000 EUR
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Large Narwhal tooth (Monodon monoceros) - Lot 576
Large Narwhal tooth (Monodon monoceros) This specimen is quite rare in terms of weight and size. Given its condition, the tooth dates from the late 18th or mid-19th century. Point slightly cut and dull Very small chip at base Old patina and crazing L. 225 cm Weight : 6,7 kg Classification II/A of the CITES codes (Washington Convention) and European Union Regulation 338/97 of 9/12/1996. CITES granted on 20/10/2025. For export outside the EU, a re-export document is required at the buyer's expense. Note: The narwhal is a marine mammal found in the Arctic. It owes its fame to its two teeth: the right (which rarely pierces the gum and is often invisible) and the left (which takes the form of a rostrum with a helical structure that can reach 270 cm). In the Middle Ages, this tooth or rostrum was regarded as a unicorn "horn": an emblem of virginity and purity. Because of the tooth's magical and therapeutic powers, its price was equivalent to that of gold. Emperor Charles V paid off a huge debt to the Margrave of Bayreuth by giving him two narwhal "horns".
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