Organic (ivory, horn, etc.)
Salem, Essex, Massachusetts, New England, United States, North America
1814
Shell (mollusk); Mahogany; Glass; Sand; Stain; Paint
Hand colored, Shellwork, Painted
1959.0848 A- C
Object Number1959.0848 A- C |
Shellwork picture (Sailor's valentine)
Organic (ivory, horn, etc.)
Bequest of Henry Francis du Pont
Salem, Essex, Massachusetts, New England, United States, North America
Inscription on back mentions Salem (possibly Massachusetts).
1814
1. Inscription; Backboard, lower right corner; "Barton/ Salem 1814"
Animals
Shell (mollusk); Mahogany; Glass; Sand; Stain; Paint
Hand colored, Shellwork, Painted
10.4 (H) , 10.5 (W) , 2 (D)
26.5 (H) , 26.7 (W) , 5.2 (D)
Measurements are of box. H at left. W at bottom. D at upper left.
This framed shell work is a mosaic picture with an intricate symmetrical design composed of small sea shells of various colors and shapes creating circles, squares, flowers and swags all glued on a red-colored sand background. The central motif of an eagle with upswept wings, a shield, and clasping arrows and an olive branch in its talons depicts the U.S. Seal, a popular choice for folk art and patriotic imagery during the War of 1812 era.