In the 18th and 19th century every house had a fireplace, and therefore a mantle piece, and in the grander houses , several mantlepieces. These would be decorated with all manner of things from clocks, candlesticks, photograph frames and pottery and brass ornaments.
 
Here we have a collection of 11 exotic seashells mounted on ebony bases. All from a natural history cabinet.
 
All in good condition.
 
Dimensions: from 9cm high to 23cm high