a large victorian keepsake love token shell valentine roundel.
size ...180mm diameter.
a round shaped convex glass covered diorama, consisting of a victorian coloured print of a gaff rigged cutter on a calm sea, set with shells and sea flora under glass. surrounded by pelicans foot shells.
the roundel was likely bought as a memento of a seaside holiday. in the late nineteenth century, no beau would dare to visit his sweetheart without bringing a token of his true feelings purchased on his well earnt holiday.
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 e'toile 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.
the roundel dates to around 180-90 it is in pretty good condition though the back is showing the passage of time and the original hanging loop has been replaced at some stage.
this is an antique manufactured in the uk over 100 years ago.
