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 decorative display of shells and corals on an ebonised stand, from  natural history cabinet.
 
All in good condition.
 
Dimensions: 38cm high