Hi guys,
This is my first attempt at scrimshaw.
http://www.esnips.com/web/NativeAmericantypeFlutes
It is an "animal totem" for the top of a Native American style "courting flute".
The purpose of the totem is to direct the air flow forward across the whistle.
The air chamber in front of the mouthpiece is not directly connected to the bore of the instrument but would go straight up if the totem was not in place.
A totem is supposed to be an animal that best describes your character or one you have defeated in battle.
That Moose antler is HARD! It has some porous areas and some smooth ones.
I'd like to get my hands on some elk antler to see if there is more smooth areas.
Bob