a rare victorian keepsake love token shell valentine in the form of a star.
size ... 200mm x 200mm
a star shaped domed glass covered diorama, consisting of a victorian print of a port scene in the manner of w.l.wylie and incorporating an arrangement of shells and sea flora. surrounded by pelicans foot shells and pretty coloured and pearlescent european shells. the star has a later hanging loop.
this is a fine example of a shell keepsake. the shells are bright and all intact, they have been carefully cleaned and conserved removing a century of dirt, soot and grime to revitalise their natural beauty. the wood effect paper on the reverse is in good condition, the star has a later hanging loop.
in the late nineteenth century no beau would dare to visit his sweetheart without taking some token of his true feelings. the star shape was popular, sailors had long used them to navigate their ships to safe harbours and its shape gave a sense of romance to the gift and when encrusted with shells the star would have the added cache' of the hint of travel to exotic places.
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.
this is an antique manufactured in the uk over 100 years ago.
