Sailor's Valentines were made on the Islands of the West Indies, principally Barbados, throughout the 19th century. These islands were often a ship's last port of call before returning to home, especially for vessels of the United States Navy. These collections of shells were bought by the visiting sailors and very often given to wives or sweethearts on their return to home.
Later examples, made smaller and with fewer shells are often centred with mottos such as ‘For My Home’, ‘For My Mother’ and eventually ‘A present From Barbados’.
There are a few loose sea beans and one or two of small white Zebina browniane.
Open dimensions: 27.5 inches wide x 14 inches high
Item Code: 5204
£ 6350
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