Shell Furniture

A gorgeous Art Nouveau or Art Deco period gilt bronze and inlaid abalone rocker ink blotter By Tiffany Studios New York, USA, Early 20th Century Measures: 5.75"W x 2.75"D x 1.75"H...

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 beautiful abalone seashell and two-tone acrylic bar, table or kitchen trivet, circa mid-20th century, USA. Colors include beautiful pearl pink and gr...

A pair of large scale tessellated penshell end tables signed with Karl Springer metal tags.

This refined folding card case is of rectilinear form and constructed with an exterior veneered in richly figured tortoiseshell, framed by narrow linear inlays that emphasize its arc...

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...

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 ...

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

Beautifully designed nesting tables in shagreen and sea shell with brass inlays. An organic style with curvy design and edges. The design looks like a storm, France. The shagreen table measures: L 23.5, W 14, H 21.5. The sea shell table...

18th century Italian painted and silvered crown adorned with natural-forming baroque silver pearls and silvered citron crystal points. The pearls follow the contour of the silvered w...

Vintage table lamp fashioned from a large natural conch shell, with a soft pink interior and creamy exterior decorated with an engraved/etched coastal scene of palm trees, sailboats,...

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...

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 ...

Yaniv Chen’s Lustrano Headboard takes its cues from the polished wooden speedboats of the Italian Riviera, an age of leisurely glamour and an almost obsessive devotion to detail. A p...

To place a mother of pearl media console against your television wall is to make a quiet but unambiguous statement about the quality of objects you choose to live with. Every surface...

Pair of 18th century Italian gold leaf finials with aragonite in matrix and baroque pearls on two hand-painted gallery 1-inch canvases. The color and texture of the fragment artifact...

A beautiful sailor’s valentine with intricate shellwork under glass, in an octagonal mahogany case with raised shell decoration carved by master cabinetmaker Donald Dunlap of Antrim,...

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...

Pair of 17th century Italian candlesticks with polished agate coral tops and baroque pearls. The alter candlesticks originally came from a church in Florence. They are mounted with ...

Round dining or center table featuring a lacquered capiz shell veneer top supported by a polished chrome base.

An impressive focal point in any dining room, this stately table is crafted with veneered maple "occhiolinato" (an exquisite pattern of glossy circular variegation that recalls the p...

Sasak Dowry Box, Lombok Indonesia, Cowrie & Painted Palm 1950’s Handwoven and richly adorned, this 1950’s Sasak dowry box from Lombok, Indonesia, captures the ceremonial artistry of...

A rare and poetic decorative object, this figurine represents a lady in romantic 19th-century costume. Entirely handcrafted, the skirt is composed of scallop shells, beautifully arra...

A sofa with storage drawers in the Hollywood Regency style, designed by Manuel Da Costa, a designer of the 1970s and 1980s and the creator of many designs for the Rome-based company ...

A whimsical shell-covered cat figurine. Delicately applied seashells cover this feline figurine in an array of browns. Great for the kitten lover, or for ...

A Fine Moorish Revival Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Fish Table, circa 1880 A highly unusual and richly decorated late 19th-century Moorish Revival octagonal table, constructed in hardwood...

Deco Banded Mahogany Mother of Pearl Inlay Round Lamp Center Gueridon Table MINT

A White Marble Pietra Dura side table conceived as a occasional table is hand-carved from White Marble and inlaid with scattered pansy motifs in Agate, Mother of Pearl, and Tiger Eye...

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 skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. La Dame vase in large is a beautiful sculptural piece that is both feminine & bold, inlaid completely in black pen shell to create a dramatic statement. Available in other shapes and sizes to form a dramatic cluster of vases...

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 ...

TABLE NO. 16 J.M. Szymanski d. 2023 This unique table sculpture is dressed for a special occasion. She is hand carved from iron and is combined with precious ocean pearls. She will...

A coffee table is, in most homes, the most handled piece of furniture in any room — touched daily, leaned over, gathered around. This mother of pearl inlay coffee table asks that the...

Maitland Smith decorative jewelry box made of two tone tessellated pen shell with brass detailing.

Stunning pair of table lamps by Maitland-Smith. Body of the obelisk featuring a penshell veneer, contrasted by patinated brass accents.

Beautiful pair of wall sconces by J.T. Kalmar, Austria, Vienna, 1960s. The fixtures are made of each six heavy ice Murano glass elements hanging on a gilt brass frame. Socket: Ea...

The Kimono vase is crafted from hand-worked copper and bronze, its rounded form finished with a richly patinated surface and layers of lacquer that lend depth and tonal variation. Cu...

This vintage octagonal side table presents a classic Anglo-Indian silhouette, with a faceted top resting on eight slender, square-section legs joined by a folding framework. Crafted ...

Lovely coastal sea Shell handmade set of 8 trivets and coasters for coastal table decor.

Fantastic transitional piece, arts & crafts to art deco captured in this ashstand. Fabulous mixed metals create a very pure and interesting stand. Match Holder opposite the ashtray....

Talk about elegant and classy! You're next fancy get together will be an extra special event using these forks and knives for the fish course or enjoying dessert and it comes in the ...

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 skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. The fluted cabinet...

The Asilah chandelier by Ironies features a monumental drum form decorated with neoclassical quatrefoil designs. The chandelier is completely embellished with natural capriz shell ve...

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 ...

19th century Meiji period charger/plate with cockerel beautifully realistic in layers of carved shell, mother of pearl and bone to stand in high r...

There is a category of decorative object that does something no other kind of furniture can — it changes as you move around it, revealing something different from every angle, never ...

Asian table mirror with mother-of-pearl inlay from the early 20th century, 52 cm high for 30 cm by 16 cm. Additional information: Material: Copper & brass Style: Asian.

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 ...

Floor Lamp Flowerball fantastic lamp in Mother of Pearl (Shell) shade which diffuses light on a aluminium base . Beautifully when lit and adds a warm atmosphere to the interior. Pr...

Clocks - Wall clock - 19th century. French, 19th century; painted wooden case with mother-of-pearl inlay and marquetry of various woods. Dial with Roman numerals. Working. Dimensions...

There is type of English sweet called a Licorice Allsort. They are made in different layers and some have little balls covering them. The red lacquer and the little white pieces of e...

Solid mahogany chairs with ebony, birch and mother-of-pearl inlay, these are part of a suite which includes a matching loveseat and a set of six matching side chairs, available separ...

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 skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. The Storm console...

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 ...

Dutch Rozenburg Egg-Shell porcelain vase with Floral Decor, 1905, 2 available Rozenburg, NV Haagsche Plateelbakkerij/Koninklijke Porselein- en Aardewerkfabriek (Den Haag 1883 - 191...

Designed and manufactured by Philip and Kelvin LaVerne, This example of the rare Fragonard table is set with polished amethyst stones and mother-of-pear...

Stunning vintage boho chest of drawers showcasing exquisite inlay craftsmanship with intricate patterns and rich detailing. This handcrafted piece blends timeless elegance with globa...

Elegant Art Deco desk lamp crafted in chrome-plated metal; it features a weighted rectangular base, a fixed vertical column, and a sliding horizontal arm fitted with an adjustable fa...

Handsome neoclassical chest crafted in mahogany featuring a flame grained top with cross banding on a case with two cross banded drawers, brass hardware and inlaid ram head torchiere...

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...

Elegant design sea shell collage wall plaque, decorated with rare shells cut to show their spiral structure.