19th Century Domed Victorian Shell Marquetry Box

Details

Description

A truly exceptional and beautiful box, made of mosaic iridescent shell tiles that are cut with geometric precision to form … Read more A truly exceptional and beautiful box, made of mosaic iridescent shell tiles that are cut with geometric precision to form perfect alignments, the front view have seams that are in flawless arrangement from the base to the curved top surface, and having edges that are finished off with matching triangular tiles. The marquetry on the domed lid is ingeniously crafted, as each tile had to be carved with a mild arc to make the gentle smooth domed lid. The little push button releases the latch that fastens the lid. The polished natural shell nacre reflects light dynamically, with flashing bursts of rainbow colours at each tilt, to the extent that the camera could not capture the full range of the beauty.
There are a number of Victorian shell boxes on the market but none has the rare arched top and seldom in such a good condition.
Marked 'made in Germany' to base, most likely produced for export to Britain, and marked with the country of origin in compliance with the British protectionism 'Merchandise Marks Act 1887' trade policy. See less