Somewhat knackered but absolutely charming folk art shellwork box
Some losses and the silk on the sawdust-filled pin cushion has perished over time. I purchased this years ago at a market in France and it has lived happily on my dressing table ever since but its time for it to find a new custodian now.
Shellwork souvenirs were produced in the late Victorian/early Edwardian period and purchased as mementoes from holidays to coastal towns and seaside spots. The name originally came from the shell decorated pieces that sailors would bring home to their loved ones from Barbados. The myth was that the sailors made these themselves of an evening as they pined for their loved ones ... But in reality there was an enterprising cottage industry knocking them out and the salty seamen would purchase them at a gift store before heading home.
Made from cardboard with shell decoration
Size: 15cm x 10cm x 8cm