A BEAUTIFUL CASED 19TH CENTURY BARBADOS DOUBLE SHELLWORK SAILOR’S VALENTINE, Geometric Design, with typical geometric shell patterns, mixed media, hinged at centre, the right-hand panel inscribed with motif “A Gift Of Love”, the left with heart and rose motif. Overall measurements of Octagon are: 14 x 14 x 4 inches. (35.56 x 25.56 x 10.16 cm.s). Each of the 8 sides of the Octagon is 5.35 inches or 13.58 cm.

Historical Context:

Dating back to the 19th century, Sailors' Valentines have been a beloved tradition, first given by merchant seamen to loved ones when the men safely returned home from months or years at sea. Painstakingly crafted by arranging multi-colored seashells into intricate and exquisite designs, and glued inside a glass-covered wooden box, these one-of-a-kind mosaics brought heartwarming joy to their recipients.