Shellwork Bouquet

PeriodCirca 1850 - 1870

Place MadeEngland or U.S.A.

MediumSea shells, wire, plaster, wood, glass, paper

Dimensions25 × 13 in. (63.5 × 33 cm)

Classifications(not assigned)

Credit LineMuseum Collection

Object number2021.501

DescriptionA large and elaborate shellwork bouquet under a large colorless glass dome atop a circular turned and painted wooden base. The bouquet, made to resemble large full-blown peonies, roses, daisies, and other blossoms, is constructed of numerous dyed and natural sea shells, fastened to wire armatures by both blue and by small holes drilled into the edges of the shells. Each branch or cluster of shells has been wrapped around other branches, then fixed to a sturdy central wooden shaft, covered in dark green paper. The larger wire "branches" are also wrapped in shades of green paper tape, with the addition of delicate cut green paper leaves and moss bunches. The central shaft ends at an urn, constructed of painted wood and plaster, is glued to a circular wooden display base, painted dark green, with a groove cut near the edge to accomodate a colorless glass elogated dome. The entire base surface is covered with shells and bunches of paper "moss." The shells used in this elaborate bouquet include periwinkles, cockles, scallops, jingle shells, coquina, and several clam varieties.
Curatorial RemarksShellwork was considered one of the many popular "parlor crafts" in the ninteenth century, suitable for wives and daughters to occupy their time and show off their creative talents. Shells were glued to boxes, frames, and other small items, displayed in parlors and given as gifts. Shops at seaside resorts offered numerous shell-based souvenirs to visitors.This impressive and elaborate floral bouquet, constructed entirely out of seashells, is most likely the work of a commercial firm. It would have been an expensive household decoration, proudly displayed on a central table in a well-furnished parlor. At more than 22 inches high, the arrangement contains hundreds of shells held together with wire and glue, and enhanced with delicate cut paper leaves and moss. While many of the smaller shell-enhanced boxes and frames have survived, larger shellwork pieces such as this one are rarities, their fragility making them easily damaged or broken. This type of shellwork was most popular in the 1850s and 1860s; by the end of the century, elaborate parlor furnishings of this nature were considered out-of-fashion and were often either destroyed or relegated to attics. It is unknown whether this piece was made in England or in the United States.

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