a victorian keepsake love token shell valentine in the form of an anchor, no.2 of a pair that we have for sale on wild folk.
an exquisite shaped anchor decorated with pretty coloured and pearlescent european shells, with a teal covered silk satin heart positioned where the stock meets the shank and with a teal coloured velvet braid infill going around the entire outer edge. this one of a pair of anchors is the best example of its type that I have seen, the shells are bright and clean and are all intact. the silk satin covered heart and velvet braid infill have retained their vibrant colour. the wood effect paper on the reverse is in excellent condition.
the heart has long been a symbol of affection, incorporated into an anchor a symbol of dependability, it would have been the ultimate love token, and when encrusted with shells would have the added cache', of the romantic hint of travel to exotic places. the heart could be pinned with sequins spelling the initial of a loved one. in the late nineteenth century no beau would dare to visit his sweetheart without taking some token of his true feelings.
shell work was very much in vogue when queen victoria came to the throne in 1837. her reign coincided with a period of tremendous social expansion as the industrial revolution gave more and more people free time, money and education to enjoy pastimes. coastal resorts and spas became popular holiday destinations. sea shells became very fashionable as souvenirs, in particular when they were incorporated into items such as this anchor d' amour, to be taken home as a reminder of the good times spent on holiday or as a keepsake or love token to be given to a potential suitor.
this is an antique manufactured in the uk over 100 years ago.
