Eel Skin and Art

André Sénécal carves objects out of the exoskeletal scales of Atlantic sturgeon caught in the St. Lawrence estuary. He calls this material ivoire de mer (marine ivory) and uses it in combination with other material derived from another species of fish found in the St. Lawrence River, the American eel. In the object shown here, the artist has worked with the skin of a silver eel that has been dyed teal blue. He has taken advantage of the skin’s natural texture to create the sea and sky of his seascape.

Eel skin is also used to make luxury products, including shoes, handbags and wallets. In addition, it now occupies a niche in haute couture.