Vintage Antique Mid-century Estate Rare 

Vintage Large Statement Mexican Abalone Shell Gold Tone Brass Copper Turtle Covered Dish Box Mid-Century Likely 1960s-70s Modern Hollywood Regency Handmade Look Approx. 14.75*7.5*4” Substantial Weight Large Statement Rare Material Untested

A magnificent vintage Mexican turtle-form covered dish or decorative trinket box, handcrafted with an extraordinary mosaic of genuine abalone shell set within warm brass framework over a copper body. Combining sculptural form, natural iridescence, and artisan metalwork, this substantial example embodies the elegant organic aesthetic that made Mexican decorative arts of the 1960s and 1970s so highly sought after by collectors and interior designers alike.

The domed shell is meticulously composed of individually hand-cut pieces of natural abalone shell, each exhibiting remarkable iridescence that shifts beautifully with changing light. Brilliant flashes of emerald green, aqua blue, lavender, rose, champagne, silver, and gold create a constantly changing surface that cannot be replicated by modern materials. Brass channels gracefully outline each section of the shell, emphasizing the stylized turtle design while showcasing the craftsmanship required to fit each individual shell segment.

The sculptural brass head, legs, tail, and decorative lid handle provide an elegant contrast to the luminous shell. The removable lid lifts away to reveal a copper-lined interior, allowing the piece to function as both an impressive decorative object and a practical covered box. Whether displayed on a coffee table, credenza, console, bookshelf, or desk, it serves equally well as a jewelry box, keepsake box, trinket dish, valet box, or simply as a striking work of decorative art.

Mexican abalone shell objects of this caliber became popular during the mid-century period, when skilled artisans combined indigenous shell-working traditions with Modernist and Hollywood Regency aesthetics. Larger examples such as this are considerably less common than the smaller souvenir-sized pieces typically encountered today. Comparable turtle boxes have been offered through respected galleries and high-end design dealers specializing in Mid-Century Modern furniture and decorative arts.

The body appears to be constructed from copper with cast brass components and extensive genuine abalone shell mosaic inlay. The piece is unmarked, with no visible maker’s signature or country-of-origin mark. Based upon the materials, construction techniques, and overall artistic style, it is believed to date to approximately the 1960s-1970s and is believed to have been produced in Mexico.

Condition

The piece is in vintage condition with honest age-related wear and an attractive original patina. There is one noticeable missing section of abalone inlay on the left side of the shell, as shown in the photographs. In addition, there are scattered stable age-related cracks, natural fissures, small separations, and storage dust, all consistent with the age and handcrafted construction of the piece. 

The brass and copper exhibit rich age-related patina with oxidation, finish wear, scratches, and discoloration from decades of use and display. The copper interior shows tarnish, oxidation, surface scratches, and wear consistent with age.

The lid fits and removes properly as intended. Dust and surface debris have not been cleaned away 

The piece has not been polished and cleaned in order to preserve the piece’s original, untouched vintage appearance.  Please review all photographs carefully, especially the close-up images, as they are an important part of the description and accurately represent the overall condition.

Approximate Measurements

• Length: Approximately 14.75 inches
• Width: Approximately 7.5 inches
• Height: Approximately 4 inches

Features

• Large vintage turtle-form covered dish or decorative box
• Believed Mexican, circa 1960s-1970s
• Genuine hand-cut abalone shell mosaic inlay
• Brass framework with copper body and interior
• Sculptural brass head, legs, tail, and lid handle
• Removable fitted lid
• Mid-Century Modern design
• Hollywood Regency aesthetic
• Organic Modern decorative appeal
• Functions as a jewelry box, trinket box, keepsake box, valet box, or decorative centerpiece
• Rich original patina
• Unmarked
• Measures approximately 14.75” L × 7.5” W × 4” H

This impressive turtle box is an outstanding example of Mexican artisan craftsmanship and mid-century decorative design. Its generous size, richly iridescent abalone shell, warm brass and copper construction, and sculptural presence make it a sophisticated statement piece for Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency, Organic Modern, Coastal, or eclectic interiors. Large handcrafted examples of this quality are increasingly difficult to find and remain highly desirable among collectors of vintage Mexican decorative arts and fine decorative objects.

Hello & thank you for viewing! We are pleased to offer this item and appreciate any consideration. Please note the item may contain imperfections or wear from age, use & storage. Please review the photos for more details, as well as size & condition. Parcel prepared with respect & care and shipped timely around 7am Monday to Saturday. Combined shipping is available when multiple items are purchased before shipment. We will only charge the highest single-item shipping cost and refund remaining shipping fees when applicable. Treasures from the Trove offers a wide variety of goods, with a special focus on vintage/antique estate jewelry and lapel pins. We truly enjoy sourcing unique items that bring joy to so many people. New inventory is added regularly, so be sure to check back often. If you are searching for a particular item, please feel free to reach out. We may have it in our unlisted inventory or can try to source it for you. Thank you very much again for your interest and support!