Lot 142: A PAIR OF CARVED JERUSALEM MOTHER-OF-PEARL SHELLS, PALESTINE, 19TH CENTURY

A pair of carved mother-of-pearl shells attributed to Jerusalem or Bethlehem, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. Each shell is crafted from natural nacreous shell with a high iridescent luster and features religious iconography executed in relief and openwork. One shell depicts the Nativity within a central roundel, positioned above a smaller medallion of the Madonna and Child, and flanked by two sections of pierced floral and foliate carving. The second shell illustrates the Last Supper, featuring a central figure of Christ surrounded by apostles under a carved drapery canopy with a descending dove. This piece displays linear detailing and faint pigment accents to the eyes and collars. Both pieces are finished with decorative top finials, one of which is drilled for suspension. 

Diameter: 14cm