Shell Furniture

A particularly fine Chinese mother of pearl dish with silver bird decoration the underside with silver ball feet Period Early 20th century

A Vintage Seashell-Encrusted Jewelry Box with Floral Motif, 20th Century Description: Wooden base completely covered in a variety of small, natural seashells. Intricate handmade mos...

The female penshell has a unique coloration that elevates it into the luxury category. This piece is crafted by hand as the shell is inlayed on the wood carcass. As a bedside table...

Amusing Rhinoceros object of art crafted with an ostrich egg and silvered, hammered metal head, legs and tail.

A fine antique 19th Century Chinese Qing dynasty carved hardwood chair Inset with a marble "dreamstone' and mother-of-pearl inlay, circa 1850. The rosewood chair having an inlaid back crest and an inset panel marble "dreamstone," the grey, ivory, black and brown inclusions in the stone resembling a mountain range. Dreamstones or scholar's stones are highly prized in Chinese culture and are known for their natural patterns that resemble landscapes, very often they were inlaid into furniture & screens. This panel is in set into carved leaf supports the frame is also inlaid with mother-of-pearl in a floral design, there is corresponding inlay on the chair yolk & also the top of the front legs, the chair is joined with four stretchers. The chair is very sturdy and condition is very good indeed, this very elegant antique Chinese chair...

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...

This is a wonderful Gigas Tridacna also known as clam shell from the ocean in great condition

A magnificent, rare and most unusual antique Moorish style bone, mother of pearl, shell & ebony inlaid carved wood library table in the manner of legendary designer Carlo Bugatti (It...

Lovely almost pair of sea shells encrusted flower pots / planters.

Antique British Colonial Sea Shell encrusted Sailors Valentines with shells in a domed glass.

A metal magnifying glass with seashell handle, circa early to mid-20th century. Piece has a metal frame with what appears to be a 'Richer's amalda' seashell, a rare deepwater species...

Beautiful brass plated abalone seashell square box with wood lined compartment. Stamped underneath “Taxco Mexico" a region of Mexico known for their unique and one of a kind metal works. The patina adds a grounding element to the glistening and multi color abalone shells. The design of a fish head in brass appears on the lid adding extra artistry to such a unique piece. One long hinge along lid allows it to open and close with ease. Incredible piece to add to your organic modern decor...

Two tessellated stone decorative perfume bottles by Maitland Smith Measures: Large bottle measures 15 inches high by 9 inches diameter. Small bottle 11 inches high by 6 inches diam...

Impressive antique Moroccan tall chest handcrafted in walnut featuring a custom glass top with a scalloped front and matching top drawer over four flat front drawers below having blu...

Vintage Triton conch seashell placed upon a solid brass Koi fish stand, circa Mid 20th Century. This unique and rare coastal item is an exotic table sculpture that will look great pl...

Superb jewelry box 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 item to display i...

Verner Panton 'Fun 2TM' table lamp in sea shells and chrome for Verpan Verner Panton was one of Denmark's most legendary modern furniture and interior designe...

This beautifully hand-carved coffee table features a marble inset top with mother-of-pearl inlay decoration. These tables are popular due to their beautiful aesthetic, craftsmanship,...

Whimsical mid-century butterfly-shaped dip or serving dish handcrafted in Mexico circa 1960s. This charming piece combines polished silver plate with brass trim and iridescent abalon...

This is a very large, 25.5 inch, gorgeous Natural Clam Shell specimen from the South Pacific seas showcasing deeply scalloped edges, exceptional details and a luminous, calcified sur...

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. A Classic oval vanity tray revisited; this Kifu Paris nautical-striped pattern tray is inlaid in a mixture of coal black shagreen, black shell, and bronze-patina brass, making for a stunning tabletop piece in any space. The frame is inlaid in bronze-patina brass. Available in other finishes and a rectangle shape. The dimensions of this piece are 15.75 x 7.75 x 0.78" All Kifu Paris pieces are handmade by artisans, ultimately making each piece unique. Custom color/sizing available on request. Wipe clean with soft dry cloth. Although inspired by her parents, her collection of Home Accessories and Furniture is a distinct identity of its own. Kifu uses handmade techniques of elaborate inlay patterns...

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 Kifu Paris Backgammon game tray is the ultimate luxury game. Accented with a mixture of shagreen, pen shell and bronze-patina brass this piece comes with all game parts in a velvet pouch. Available in a light or dark color-way. The dimensions of this piece are 60 x 34.5 x 5 cm   All Kifu Paris pieces are handmade by artisans, ultimately making each piece unique. Custom color/sizing available on request. Wipe clean with soft dry cloth. Although inspired by her parents, her collection of Home Accessories and Furniture is a distinct identity of its own. Kifu uses handmade techniques of elaborate inlay patterns of shagreen, shells, semi-precious stones, materials she experienced as a child growing up in her parent’s studio, but interpreted in a younger quirkier way reflecting her youth. From her "jewelry inspired knobs" on decorative boxes, gold bar boxes and an extravagant inlay pattern mix of shagreen and shell inspired by galactic constellations, as seen on her enormous round mirror...

Antique 1940s Mosaic Shell Inlaid Decorative Middle Eastern Islamic Box. Mosaic Luxury Decorative Middle Eastern Islamic Vanity Box. Middle Eastern Asian Mosaic Wood Box with Inlays ...

Natural history sea shells specimens collection of large turbo shells polished mother of pearl.

Vintage Chinese Harwood Chinoiserie Dining Room Set Table 8 Chairs - 9 Pc Set. Listing includes (1) 24" leaf, (2) armchairs, (6) side ch...

Sago peg, tapak, Abelam/Wosera people, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea Sago pegs are used to secure a screen mesh during the preparation of sago flour. This example depicts a ...

Newly upholstered Djinn Chaise Lounge in Kvadrat Tonus wool fabric. The color as close as it was shown in the 2001 movie by Stanley Kubrick. Excel...

Rare and unusual English 19th century sailors valentine handcrafted with exotic seashells. Around images with figures and architecture. Under a convex lens.

A "sea snail" lamp in the style of French folk art, created in the 1950s, was often crafted using large sea shells as a central element. "Sea shell" lamps were popular during this p...

A fine antique 10k yellow gold carved shell swivel cameo mourning brooch/locket, with hair & a tooth under crystal to the rear, circa 1860. This has been a great tradition of carving...

An attractively composed Seashell encrusted mirror of great quality, custom made for a prestigious summer residence. The variety of conches and scallop shells, of different colors ...

Antique Chinese Mother-of-Pearl Snuff Bottle, Guangzho, Circa 1850. A thin circular flattened form known as a sleeve bottle (easily kept in the sleeve of a garment). The material is...

Cool, beauty and unique Set of Four Italian Mid-Century Yellow Murano glass Wall Sconces from 1970s by Carlo Nason. These Sconces were designed and manufactured during the 1970s in I...

A large natural clamshell we found in a local estate. We’re selling it as we found it filled with blue glass. It is large over 22 inches wide and very heavy. This is too heavy to s...

Pair of stylized satin lacquered and shell inlay slipper chairs newly upholstered in a white luxe faux fur fabric with bolster pillow.

Extraordinary 19th century English ladies secretaire desk or writing table. The two part desk was made in the Chinoiserie revival period of Europe ...

Mid 20 th c Capiz Shell bowl with festooned edges adorned with jade fruit and jadeite leaves, mother of pearl shells.

45” large Made Goods floor sample round mirror made of multiple rows of 4 “ large Capiz shells . Great coastal decor piece.

This impressive 19th century English ebonized and inlaid tilt-top tea table will make a statement in any interior that welcomes the unique and hand-crafted. An ebonized finish brings...

Mellerio Paris, A French Gold, Diamonds, Silver-Gilt, Rock-Crystal, Jade, Mother-Of-Pearl and Smoky Quartz, Carved Horse Sculpture, Jeweled Mounted Object. An extremely rare and unique, one of a kind French gold, diamonds, Silver-gilt, rock-crystal, jade, obsidian, mother-of-pearl, and smoky quartz carved jeweled sculpture "CHEVAUX DE LEGENDE", "A Legendary Horse" by Mellerio, Paris, circa 1991. Sitting on black obsidian base, the solid rock-crystal slab is finely applied with a carved smoky -quartz and jade horse with a harness mounted in 18k gold, brilliant -cut diamonds, rubies, turquoise, and amethyst chains and pendants. The top columns adorned with 18k gold and brilliant cut diamond pendants, the bottom with gold and mother of pearl plaques. The obsidian base with a plaque engraved: CHEVAUX DE LEGENDE" / N° 05 / MELLERIO DITS MELLER / PARIS / 5003 D The piece is in excellent condition and comes with a custom made wood case made for transport. It's very elegant and has French hallmarks throughout. A truly magnificent piece. Measures 10.5" high x 8.5" wide x 4" deep Founded in France in 1613 by the descendants of Italian immigrants from the Vigezzo Valley in the north of Italy, Mellerio is one of the oldest jewellery houses in Europe. The family business soon attracted the attention of the Royal Court and Marie Antoinette herself reportedly purchased a precious bracelet featuring 7 cameos surrounded by rubies in 1780. Later on, in the 19th century, Mellerio became the official supplier of the French Royal family and the Court of Netherland. Mellerio creates many jewellery items, all set with rare gems such as peridots, amethysts, aquamarines, citrines and topaz, applying for a patent, the flexible stem, a very supple and light jewellery mechanism. Mellerio remains also well known for their spectacular series of Art Nouveau jewels, created at the beginning of the 20th century, as well as for the creation of trophies rewarding some of the greatest footfall and tennis players of history. In 1993, the jewellery house launched their first watch collection. Today, Mellerio has stores in Paris, Japan and Hong Kong. July 14, 1789: this date is known throughout the world as the beginning of the French Revolution. According to a ledger belonging to House of Mellerio, this was also the day that the jeweler sold a golden key to the Comte de Coutance for 10 livres. This ledger, as well as inventories dating as far back as 1768, are the jeweler’s oldest archives. These archives have continued to grow over the years, as the House, established on rue de la Paix in Paris, still lives on today, still in the hands of the same family from Craveggia, in the North of Italy. The tumultuous history of the Mellerio family in France probably goes as far back as the Italian wars of the Renaissance, but the first official document proving their commercial activity in Paris dates back to 1613. This document is the famous royal warrant awarded by Marie de Medici to a number of Italian families established along the rue des Lombards, including the Mellerios, allowing them to sell “small jewelery items”, therefore granting them a small exception to the traditional monopoly enjoyed by Parisian jewelers. At that time, powerful corporations regulated the operations and customs of Parisian business, but thanks to this exceptional warrant, the Mellerios managed to escape the confines of this framework. Today, this wax-sealed document is kept at the city hall of Craveggia. From 1613 to the Revolution, the Mellerios lived between France and Italy. The corporations tried many times to put an end to their trade privileges, but all in vain, as a dynasty of sovereigns renewed the warrant. Always marrying and often retiring in Craveggia, the Mellerios continued to maintain their jewelry business in Paris. At first, they did this without a shop. Wearing backpacks (wooden boxes divided into small compartments where jewels were kept), they would tour town fairs around Paris and royal castles. This is how Jean-Baptiste Mellerio (1765-1850) is said to have sold a bracelet set with rubies and Antique cameos to Marie-Antoinette, which still exists today. Many elements seem to prove the veracity of this anecdote. The queen was particularly fond of cameos, which cover the entire background of her famous jewelry cabinet, and ruby was her favorite stone after diamond. The famous bracelet, reacquired a few years ago by the House of Mellerio, is indeed an 18th century jewel, set with antique cameos representing the profiles of Roman emperors. Two branches of the family were operating in Paris during this time, under the reign of Louis XVI: that of Jean-François (1746-1828), the paternal ancestor of the current Mellerios, and that of Jean-Baptiste (1765-1850). The French Revolution forced them to return to Italy. However, both Jean-Baptiste and François Mellerio (1772-1843), who was the son of Jean-François, were eventually able to return to Paris after the founding of the Consulate. Jean-Baptiste opened a shop at the Iron Crown of rue Vivienne, and François opened his at the Palais des Tuileries, rue du Coq Saint-Honoré. His well-organized order books give an idea of his high-ranking clientele during the “Old Regime”, among which were the Comte and Comtesse Octave de Segur, the Marquise (later Duchess) de Tourzel, former governess of the royal children, and her daughter, the Comtesse de Bearn, the Craufurds -who organized the flight to Varennes, the Duc and Duchess de Gramont, the Comtesse de Boigne, and Madame de Souza, Talleyrand’s mistress. We also see the names of the imperial family: Empress Josephine, the Queen of Holland, Princess Elisa, Caroline and Pauline. At that time, the House of Mellerio specialized, among other things, in the trade of antique cameos, a newly fashionable genre of jewel that captured the imagination of all the princesses and noble women of the time. The years of the Restauration and July Monarchy were among the most glorious. The Bourbons were back on the throne, and the clientele of the House of Mellerio had regained its former wealth. Mellerio supplied Louis-Philippe, Duke of Orléans, as well as his mother, wife and sister, with sumptuous jewels, including a set of emeralds made piece by piece, while the Duke of Bourbon, last prince of the House of Condé, offered diamonds to his mistress, the scheming Baronne de Feucheres, and Monsieur de LaFayette also bought cameos for one of his granddaughters. For the first time, Mellerio ventured into the world of arts in 1815, when Carlotta Grisi, a famous dancer who created Giselle, as well as an actress named Rachel, bought jewels at the Mellerio store on rue de la Paix. 1848 marked a new turning point. France once again became a Republic. François Mellerio handed the company over to his son, Jean, and the latter decided to travel to Spain to build a new clientele. He later became one of the jewelers of the royal family, and met Eugénie de Montijo, who remained a faithful client when she became empress of the French people. The Imperial years were lavish. During the Second Empire, Paris was a pageant of crinoline dresses designed by Worth, while jewels by Mellerio, Worth’s neighbour on the rue de la Paix, adorned the noble women of the Tuileries court. The Empress bought pearls. Mathilde Bonaparte...

A Karl Springer desk in Tortoise color Pen-Shell with 3 recessed drawers. Signed with brass plaque.

A spherical pendant with a shade made from layered capiz shell petals arranged in a lotus-like form. The translucent shells soften the light and create a warm, ambient glow. Suspende...

Natural History specimen sea shells encrusted globe with birds nest white coral branch assemblage on vintage Pricket stand.

Exquisite large sterling silver souce or bowl ladle, sterling handle. Excellent condition, stamped with the Minerva Hallmark and the Makers initials LP. Solid and heavy piece ( 97 ...

Large Vintage Reef Coral Natural Specimen, Real. (ships in USA only) Beach Decor . ***NOTE: Our 1stDibs store is closing in May and items will not be available thereafter.*** A stun...

A Stunning Knobby Ammonite Fossil Specimen, About 93 Million Years Old ***NOTE: Our 1stDibs store is closing in May and items will not be available thereafter.*** This is a very beau...

Lift Top Asian Black Lacquer Mother of Pearl Figurines Decorated Multi Compartment Bar Liquor Cabinet MINT!

Beautiful decorative Wall Hanging Fan , circa 1950's, Black Lacquer Mother of Pearl

Heavily Inlaid with Mother of Pearl and Abalone From our Writing Box collection, we are pleased to offer this stunning Antique Inlaid Writing Box by Hausburg. The Writing Box of rec...

Charming vintage sailors valentine ambitiously handcrafted in exotic organic seashells with a center heart motif surrounded by star form compartments. Presented under glass in an oct...

Art Deco table lamp with mother of pearls top and funkis style framel. Made in 1940s.

Antique Anglo-Indian Mughal Mother of Pearl Inlaid Side Chair with Ram's Head. very collectable and rare to find we also have the armchairs ava...

From our recent Japanese acquisitions A rare couple. These Japanese Tachibina dolls represent the simplest essential form of the imperial couple. Their beautiful faces were crafted from crushed shell called gofun coated over carved wood and their dress feature period Edo (1840) textile kimono dress. Used as the display for the Girl’s day celebration, more specifically they are constructed of kinran brocade fabric covered paper, the heads carved of wood and covered in gofun with painted features and inset hair, the male form with outstretched arms and conical legs, the female has a cylindrical form. They come in an original kiri wood storage box. Dimensions: Large doll 12 inches tall and 6 inches wide Small doll...

A small altar tray, hand-crafted in teak with mother-of-pearl inlays. China, late 19th Century. Rustic teak in a dark brown/red semi-gloss finish. Four stretchers connect the turn...

A refined French pendant light from the 1970s, crafted from delicately arranged capiz shell panels set within a brass-toned metal framework. The spherical form is composed of geometr...

Hand-wrought circa 1960s copper and brass grasshopper centerpiece sculpture with abalone inlay eyes and legs. Signed underneath, COBRE MEXICO. Also ...

A charming vintage seashell-encrusted mirror featuring an intricate arrangement of natural shells in warm neutral tones. This handcrafted piece showcases layered textures and organic...

Offering a vintage Buccelatti style silver dipped real shell caviar or trinket dish, circa Late 20th Century. This gorgeous small dish is composed of a light yellow opened clam shell...

Moroccan hexagonal side table with mother of pearl, ebony and fruit wood inlay. The top and sides inlaid with geometric, triangular, diamond and circular patterns to create a harmoni...

A rare and magnificent silver, gold & jeweled palace mirror, certainly made for an Indian Maharaja, circa 1900. A special commission for an Indian palace from the late Victorian era, likely produced in Thailand. This palace size hand-hammered Indian mirror is made from pure silver. A truly exceptional work of art with floral design topped with miniatures structures...