C-shaped wooden clamp with whale ivory utilitarian components and decorative embellishments. Whale ivory mounts at top support an original fabric-covered pincushion. Two carved and stepped ivory bodkin are inserted into slots on upper edge of C., and three thread winders are mounted on each side , for a total of 6. Shield shaped adjustment knob screws into lower edge decorated with inlaid diamonds and hearts. Decorative relief- carved panels on edges are backed by metal or glass  and are mostly in geometric designs, though one depicts a whale. Just a wonderful piece of American folk , probably a "Sweet Heart ", gift from a very skillful Whaleman.