SOLD 
 
A late Victorian shellwork diorama featuring a hand-tinted photograph of people on a beach, c. 1890–1900. A wonderful snapshot of social history. In front of the image is an artfully arranged display of shells and seaweed, creating a 3D effect to the view through the original bubble-blown period glass.
 
These shellwork dioramas were produced in the late Victorian/early Edwardian period as souvenirs of coastal towns and seaside locations, often bought by sailors as presents for their sweethearts. These pieces are now considered as items of folk art due to their handmade qualities, making each one unique.