If you’re looking for an antique treasure from the sea, this is it:
a stunning little shell-decorated jewelry or dresser box covered with all manner of bronze, amber, pink, pearly and pale purple shells.
Given its age and the fragility of the material, the box is in excellent overall condition, with fairly minor breakage or loss. But what really separates it from other shell art examples is the intricacy of the design. Note how the maker has created small spires, grottos and floral shapes with shells of varying color, shape and size.
Decorated on five sides, the box sits four gilded metal legs and is 8-1/2” h x 7” d x 12-3/4” w. The box retains its original aquamarine paint, original mirror on the underside of the hinged lift-up top and what appear to be an early, if not original, key. Fourth quarter 1800s.
SOLD