Stunning Antique Victorian Walnut Veneer Box with Marquetry Banding Containing a Beautiful Display of Sea Shells

Here on offer is a stunning antique Victorian walnut veneer box with marquetry banding, containing a beautiful display of sea shells, circa 1850.

Victorian sailors brought back intricate "sailors' valentines", which were elaborate shell-art souvenirs, as tokens of love for their sweethearts and family members. These were typically octagonal, glass-fronted wooden boxes filled with meticulously arranged shells in symmetrical, mosaic-like patterns.
This example is a more unusual version, being that the shells have been beautifully set inside the box and to make an impactive display when the box is opened.
The popularity of these valentines was fuelled by the Victorian enthusiasm for collecting natural history specimens, a trend known as "conchylomania" (love of collecting seashells), that was popular between 1840 and 1890.

Today, these antique "sailor's valentines" and other Victorian shell-work items are highly collectible pieces of folk art, valued for their intricate craftsmanship and historical significance.

The box itself is in excellent condition with all the marquetry still in place, including the circle of mother of pearl inset in the top of the lid. There are just a few minor chips to the wood and some scratches.

It retains its original lock but there is no longer a key.

Inside all the ornate shells seem to still be fixed in place, making a truly impressive display.

The box measures 10.75” (27.3cm) long by 7.5” (19cm) wide and 4.5” (11.4cm) high.

It weighs a heavy 2Kg.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Thank you for taking the time to look.

Code: 52138