Shell Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Vintage Japanese black tin with Aboloni accents round tea caddie/canister hinged top and removable inner piece in chicken and floral motif. Measures 6" high x 7.5 diameter base x...

Set of six napkin rings in natural capiz pearl in flower shape. Luminous, beautiful pearl shell color. vintage set of 6 flower shaped made of natural semi iridescent capiz shell. Due...

Solid silver 800 oval centerpiece on gilded feet with mother of pearl inserts and gilded details. Completely handmade, ceased and embossed, it has a wavy oval shape. Made in Italy....

Tibia fusus fully silver coated seashell. Creel and Gow has been working with the same atelier in Rome, Italy for over 20 years to make our signature sil...

This striking vintage serving tray is a masterclass in organic texture and meticulous craftsmanship, featuring an exquisite tessellated coconut shell exterior. Each hand-laid piece o...

An exceptional, fine and impressive antique Victorian English 9-carat yellow gold and mother of pearl handled butter knife, boxed, an addition to our diverse flatware collection. This exceptional antique Victorian 9-karat gold butter knife has a sabre style knife blade, with a broad incurved shaped form. The anterior face of the concave curved blade is ornamented with a segmented panel of impressive bright cut engraved foliate ornamentation, all on a matte background. The reverse surface of the blade is plain, apart from the feature hallmarks. This antique knife retains the original, fine and impressive carved mother of pearl handle...

Superb set of 6 shot glasses designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal set with abalone mother-of-pearl and brass, is a true work of art. A beautiful set to d...

Victorian Papier-Mâché and Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Tray by Benetfink & Co., London England, circa 1870 A finely decorated Victorian papier-mâché tray of large oval form, richly ornam...

A unique Antique Victorian Goblet with a natural Ostrich Egg Body and a Sterling Silver mounted base, inner lining and upper rim. The Ostrich Egg Body rests on a barley twist column ...

This exquisite set of six vintage napkin rings is crafted from genuine mother-of-pearl, exuding timeless elegance and sophistication. Originating from the 1950s, these rare pieces ar...

Antique English Victorian Mother of Pearl 24 piece dessert service in case, circa 1880.

Striking mid-century Mexican shot glass and tray set, made of brass with inlaid abalone shell. The set includes six shot glasses and a matching rect...

Direct from a Private Chateau in France, A Stunning 138pc. Privately Commissioned Louis XVI Sterling Silver Flatware Set (Service for 12) with 6 Serving Pieces by Internationally Kno...

Condition: Original Vintage Condition Materials: Brass, Abalone Inlay Dimensions: Tray: 0.25”H x 8.50”W x 6”D Cordial Shot: 3”H x 1.25”W x 1.25”D This vintage Mexican modernist...

Superb set of 4 shot glasses designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal set with abalone mother-of-pearl and alpaca, is a true work of art. A beautiful set to ...

Antique French inlaid brass, Tortoise, and Mother of pearl cave À Liqueur with Baccarat crystal glassware.

We are delighted to offer this absolutely exquisite circa 1880 Chinese Export warrior paper mache mother of pearl inlaid dinner serving tra...

Clam Shell Mirror $275.00 Hand formed mirror made with a red stoneware and a Pacific blue glaze. Found shells from San Diego are hand pressed on to the edges. Each piece is hand made...

Hand formed platter made with a red stoneware and a milky white glaze. Found scallop shells from Japan are hand pressed on to the lip. Each piece is hand made in San Diego. They are ...

Dutch Rozenburg Egg-Shell porcelain vase with Bird and Floral Decor, 1913 Rozenburg, NV Haagsche Plateelbakkerij/Koninklijke Porselein- en Aardewerkfabriek (Den Haag 1883 - 1917) S...

French modern natural grapevine ‘Coral’ wine caddy France, Circa 1960s A spectacular natural specimen grapevines articulated to emulate coral branches...

That's an antique dinner bell with abalone , mother -of-pearl bell on a white marble base. I found this object in France during a vacation, and the...

Antique English mother of pearl, Sheffield silver and Ormolu dessert service in original box, circa 1870.  

Mexican Alpaca Silver and Abalone Bottle Opener. A beautiful statement piece at the bar, especially one with Mid-century influences. The Abalone and silver are extraordinary and a g...

For your consideration, a vintage Mexican articulated fish bottle opener made with abalone shell in the style of Los Castillo. Unmarked. The body is segmented and articulated, allowi...

This extraordinary snuff box is a true work of art, crafted from silver and adorned with a stunning mother-of-pearl cover. Unlike traditional rectangular or box-shaped designs, this piece takes on the unique and elegant form of a seashell, adding to its rarity and charm. The mother-of-pearl lid is masterfully hand-carved with an intricate portrayal of the sacred site of Kever Rachel, the tomb of the biblical matriarch Rachel. The delicate engraving captures the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, featuring rolling fields and distant mountains. A majestic tree with overhanging branches stands prominently, casting its shade over the revered burial site at the center of the composition. The depth and detail of the carving bring the scene to life, reflecting both artistic excellence and spiritual reverence. The silver base of the snuff box complements the luminous mother-of-pearl, creating a harmonious blend of materials that exude elegance and historical significance. A rare and collectible piece, this snuff box is a perfect addition for collectors of fine Judaica, antique snuff boxes...

Superb abalone shell pitcher designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal cocktail jar with abalone mother-of-pearl and alpaca is a true work of art. A beautiful...

Beautiful and large centerpiece designed and produced in Italy during the 1980's. This handcrafted item with mother-of-pearl and solid aluminium will be a great highlight in your hom...

From Landers, Frary & Clark, Aetna Works, founded in New Britain, Connecticut, 1866, a set of twelve mother-of-pearl handled place or luncheon knives with floral sterling silver ferr...

Rousing pitcher with form and function, handcrafted in silver plate on hammered copper decorated in mother of pearl. Stamped Mexico on the bottoms. As seen in the last photo of the l...

Beautiful salt & pepper shakers designed and produced in Italy during the 1970's. This artisanal set with mother-of-pearl is a true work of art. A beautiful item to display in yo...

A gorgeous antique Arts & Crafts or Art Deco period gilt bronze large plate or tray with abalone inlay By Tiffany Studios (signed to the underside) New York, USA, Early 20th Centur...

Set of six butter knives in original box with label Alexander Clark London. Made for Goldsmith and Silversmith. Hallmarks Alexander Clark and Co. Handles in mother-of-pearl. Blades e...

Vintage silver plated water pitcher with abalone shell inlaid designed and manufactured in Mexico in the 1960s More than a utilitarian piece, this pitcher is more of a sculpture, t...

A fine antique Edwardian boxed fruit or dessert set. By Wilson & Gill of Sheffield, England. Comprising 12 3-tine forks and 12 knives. Each with a chamfered mother-of-pearl ha...

Direct from France: Direct from a Private Villa in St. Tropez, A Magnificent 220pc. Louis XVI French 950 Sterling Silver Flatware Set by Henri Lapparra, "Silversmith to the French E...

t is a Rectangular -shaped tray, made of rattann mother-of-pearl pellets. It was made in Italy in the 1970s. The decorations that compose it are mother-of-pearl pellets in White Color .

Direct from Paris: A magnificent 170pc. 950 sterling silver original French art nouveau flatware set with 8 serving pieces by the world's premier French silversmith "Puiforcat" currently owned by Hermes, stunning luxury at an amazingly low price - circa early 1900s. The art of French silversmithing represents a centuries-old tradition of luxury, precision, and timeless elegance. Among the most distinguished names in this venerable craft stands Puiforcat, a Maison renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and royal patronage. Established in the early nineteenth century, Puiforcat has maintained an unwavering commitment to excellence, producing sterling silver flatware, tableware, and decorative objects that embody both artistic mastery and functional beauty. The History and Legacy of Puiforcat: The origins of Puiforcat trace back to 1820, when master silversmith Jean-Baptiste Fuchs established his workshop in Paris. Fuchs was a consummate artisan who adhered to the exacting standards of French silversmithing, a tradition that demanded not only technical precision but also refined artistic sensibility. The Maison’s identity became firmly established when Fuchs' son-in-law, Émile Puiforcat, inherited the business and elevated its reputation to unprecedented heights. Émile Puiforcat emerged as more than just a silversmith; he was a true visionary who intuitively understood the evolving aesthetic sensibilities of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Under his inspired leadership, the Maison successfully transitioned from producing traditional silverware to embracing avant-garde movements, particularly Art Nouveau and later Art Deco. This remarkable ability to innovate while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship distinguished Puiforcat from its contemporaries and established its enduring reputation. During the glorious Belle Époque period spanning the late nineteenth to early twentieth century, Puiforcat flourished as French decorative arts entered a golden age. The Maison’s work during this period was characterized by several defining features that set it apart. Each piece bore the mark of meticulous hand-hammered finishes, a technique that gave Puiforcat silverware its distinctive texture and depth compared to mass-produced alternatives. The Maison’s artisans employed exquisite chasing and engraving techniques, including the sophisticated repoussé method where designs were carefully hammered into relief from the reverse side, followed by precise chasing to refine the front details. These labor-intensive processes resulted in breathtakingly intricate, lifelike motifs that became Puiforcat's signature. While Puiforcat's early work remained firmly rooted in rococo and neoclassical traditions, the Maison demonstrated remarkable adaptability by later embracing the clean lines and bold symmetry of Art Deco, particularly under Émile Puiforcat's visionary guidance. Royal Patronage and Aristocratic Clientele: Puiforcat's reputation for excellence quickly attracted the attention of Europe's most discerning elite. The Maison’s clientele included some of the most prominent figures of the nineteenth century, beginning with King Louis-Philippe of France, whose refined taste and appreciation for fine craftsmanship led him to commission ceremonial silverware from Puiforcat. This royal endorsement significantly enhanced the Maison’s prestige and visibility. Napoleon III followed suit, making Puiforcat silver services a staple at imperial banquets and state functions. Beyond French royalty, Puiforcat's creations became essential status symbols among the broader European aristocracy, finding homes in the collections of Russian nobles and British high society alike. The Maison’s ability to cater to royal tastes extended beyond mere prestige; it reflected a profound understanding of both ceremonial grandeur and functional design. Puiforcat's pieces were never merely decorative objects - each item was carefully engineered to enhance the dining experience. The ergonomic handles and perfectly balanced weights of their flatware demonstrated how Puiforcat harmonized aesthetic beauty with practical utility, creating pieces that were as delightful to use as they were to behold. Émile Puiforcat played a particularly transformative role in elevating the Maison’s standing during the early twentieth century. His visionary approach included collaborations with leading artists and architects of the period, most notably Jean-Michel Frank, the influential Art Deco designer. These creative partnerships ensured that Puiforcat's designs remained at the cutting edge of contemporary aesthetics. While many traditional silversmiths clung to conventional styles, Émile boldly embraced geometric abstraction, creating pieces that functioned simultaneously as tableware and sculptural art. His leadership earned Puiforcat international acclaim through awards at world expositions, cementing the Maison’s reputation as an innovator in luxury silverware. Émile's legacy proved so enduring that even after his death in 1945, Puiforcat continued to be synonymous with innovation and exclusivity in the world of fine silver. Awards and Accolades: Throughout its distinguished history, Puiforcat's commitment to excellence has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, each reinforcing its status as a master of French silversmithing. The Maison’s participation in world expositions yielded particularly significant honors, beginning with gold medals at the Paris Exposition Universelle in both 1889 and 1900. These monumental exhibitions represented the pinnacle of industrial and artistic achievement in the nineteenth century, making Puiforcat's gold medals a powerful testament to its technical mastery and artistic vision. The Maison’s international reputation continued to grow through subsequent exhibitions in major European cultural capitals. At international exhibitions in Brussels, Barcelona, and Milan, Puiforcat demonstrated its remarkable ability to adapt to regional aesthetic preferences while maintaining its distinctive French elegance. This versatility, combined with uncompromising quality, earned the Maison consistent acclaim across diverse markets and cultures. In the modern era, Puiforcat's contributions to artisanal traditions have received official recognition through France's Living Heritage Company (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant, or EPV) designation. This prestigious distinction, awarded by the French government, honors enterprises that preserve and advance traditional artisanal skills. Puiforcat's inclusion in this select group underscores its ongoing dedication to handcrafted excellence in an increasingly industrialized world. The artistic significance of Puiforcat's work has been further validated through exhibitions at some of the world's most respected cultural institutions. The Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art have both showcased Puiforcat pieces, placing them in dialogue with other masterworks of decorative arts. These exhibitions not only celebrate Puiforcat's historical contributions but also affirm its continuing relevance in the narrative of fine craftsmanship. Association with Hermès - A Synergy of Luxury: The 1993 acquisition of Puiforcat by the Hermès luxury group marked a significant chapter in the Maison’s history, ensuring both the preservation and thoughtful evolution of its legacy. This strategic partnership brought together two French institutions united by their commitment to artisanal excellence and timeless design. Hermès demonstrated profound respect for Puiforcat's heritage, carefully maintaining the traditional techniques that had defined the silversmith's work for generations. Under Hermès' stewardship, Puiforcat continued to employ the same handmade techniques that had earned its reputation, including the exacting lost-wax casting process and meticulous hand engraving. The Maison maintained its uncompromising standards regarding materials, continuing to use 950-silver despite industry trends toward lower purity alloys. This commitment to quality ensured that every piece bearing the Puiforcat name remained worthy of its illustrious history. Hermès' global retail network provided Puiforcat with unprecedented access to international markets, introducing the silversmith's creations to new generations of collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. While honoring tradition, Hermès also encouraged thoughtful innovation, supporting new designs that respected Puiforcat's heritage while ensuring its relevance in contemporary luxury. This balanced approach has allowed Puiforcat to maintain its position at the forefront of fine silverware while staying true to its artisanal roots. Puiforcat's 950 Sterling Silver Art Nouveau Flatware Sets: Among Puiforcat's most celebrated achievements are its extraordinary 950 sterling silver Art Nouveau flatware sets, which perfectly encapsulate the Maison’s artistic and technical brilliance. The decision to use 950-silver, containing 95% pure silver rather than the standard 92.5%, resulted in pieces with a richer luster and greater durability than conventional sterling silver. This higher purity not only enhanced the visual appeal of each piece but also ensured that Puiforcat flatware...

Chic vintage Mexican pitcher crafted in brass in a sleek modern form entirely clad in abalone or mother of pearl with a mahogany handle. Signed...

A beautiful set of six (6) sterling silver and mother-of-pearl appetizer knives, circa late-20th century. The handle is mother-of-pearl joined to stainless-steel blade by a sterling ...

A striking mid-century Mexican modernist creamer and sugar pot set executed in polished alpaca (nickel silver) and richly inlaid abalone shell, designed and manufactured in Mexico in...

Elegant mid-century Mexican brass and abalone shell serving set, designed and handcrafted in Mexico during the 1950s. This beautiful ensemble includes a rectangular tray and five tum...

The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by ...

A striking vintage water pitcher designed and manufactured by Los Castillo in Taxco, Mexico—an iconic workshop celebrated for elevating Mexican silversmithing into the realm of moder...

Elegant set of six handcrafted teacups with matching saucers, designed and manufactured in Mexico during the 1950s. Each piece is beautifully made of solid brass with abalone shell i...

Elegantly designed pairs of brass candlesticks and salt & pepper shakers, with inlaid mother of pearl designs.

Made of palissander, this lovely Napoleon III period liqueur box is lacquered in black, a method which became popular during Napoleon III's reign. The rose...

The Ariol Cocktail Pick captures the essence of refined entertaining, balancing a charismatic presence with a touch of intimate elegance. Designed to enhance both grand celebrations ...

Set of 36 French Gold-Plated Flatware with Mother-of-Pearl Handles, in Original Box, Set of 36 French Antique Dessert Forks & Knives, Oyster Fork Set with Gold Ferrules An exqui...

Vintage Raimond Sheffield England Mother-of-Pearl Fruit Knives Silver Plated Set Offered for sale is a set of six Raimond Silver Manufacturers, Sheffie...

Exceptional mid-century creamer and sugar set with tray by Los Castillo of Taxco, Mexico, representing the finest traditions of Mexican silversmithing. This sculptural serving set sh...

Superb set of 6 shot glasses designed and produced in Mexico during the 1970's. This artisanal set with abalone mother-of-pearl and alpaca, is a true work of art. A beautiful set to ...

A striking set of four vintage tumblers by Villa, Taxco, crafted in brass with interiors silver plated and exteriors inlaid with shimmering abalone shell. Each cylindrical cup is ado...

This lovely pair of vintage silver-plate and abalone salad servers or serving pieces are from the 70's. They are marked Mexico and there are no other markings. Abalone is always beau...

A gorgeous Arts & Crafts or Art Deco period gilt bronze dish or shallow bowl with abalone inlay By Tiffany Studios (signed to the underside) New York, USA, Early 20th Century Meas...

Quality unusual pair of antique Japanese imari shaped plates, having an unusual pair of shaped antique Japanese imari plates decorated with flowers, leaves, trees and birds in stunni...

This piece represents the era’s celebrated fusion of organic materials and modern design, echoing the influence of Taxco’s most innovative silversmiths—where artists and workshops such as Los Castillo...

A gorgeous antique Arts & Crafts or Art Deco period gilt bronze dish or shallow bowl with abalone inlay By Tiffany Studios (signed to the underside) New York, USA, Early 20th Centu...

A sculptural seven-piece Mexican modernist barware set executed in solid brass and clad in hand-cut abalone shell mosaic, crafted in Mexico circa 1960s. Marked: Hecho en Mexico Meta...

Whimsical mid century serving tray by Couroc of Monterey, made from phenolic resin and inlaid with wood and colorful materials depicting a Southwestern Vase...