Antique Victorian Seashell Art Figurine with Bisque Doll - Early Folk Art Souvenir 3.75" T x 4.75" W
Up for sale is a rare and charming piece of authentic antique/vintage seashell folk art. Likely handmade as a seaside resort souvenir around the turn of the century, this intricate piece is constructed using an array of natural sea shells. A large pink scallop shell serves as the sturdy base, supporting a center cluster of tiny auger, periwinkle, and cockle shells. Nestled in the center is a small, hand-painted bisque porcelain miniature doll (often referred to as a "Frozen Charlotte" style) wearing a bonnet. A flared, tulip-like shell sits at the top, acting as a small decorative vase or holder cup.
Type: Seashell Figurine / Sailor's Valentine Style Folk Art
Material: Natural Sea Shells, Plaster/Cement Bonding, Bisque Porcelain
Features: Integrated miniature porcelain doll figurine
Estimated Era: Late Victorian to Early 1900s (Circa 1890–1920)
Theme: Nautical / Oceanside / Antique Beach Souvenir Craft
Good antique condition considering its fragile age and nature. As seen the natural shells show some typical aging, surface dust, and minor edge wear. The bonding material holding the small shells together is fully intact and solid. The small bisque doll figure remains securely attached, showing light paint wear to her features but no broken limbs. The underside of the shell base displays a beautiful deep pink gradient and preserves some old, faint handwritten pencil markings."