French Polynesian Hand-Carved Pearl Shell. With Stand.

While the shell famous in the French Polynesia is the Pinctada margaritifera or black lipped pearl oyster, this piece is actually a Pinctada maxima. The carving style is very similar to other examples black-lipped pearl oyster carvings produced in French Polynesia so it is likely the shell was traded there for the carving process.

Pearl shell carving in French Polynesia has a long history deeply intertwined with cultural traditions, dating back to ancient Polynesian cultures. Traditionally, pearl shells were used for various purposes, including making fishing lures, tattooing needles, pendants, and figurines. By the 1840s, they were harvested and exported en masse to Europe. The art of carving is linked to traditional Polynesian motifs and symbols, often reflecting tribal patterns, ocean waves, turtles, sharks, and tapa cloth designs.

This example measures 16cm x 17cm and features a fisherman and his wife returning from a day at sea. The natural shell would have been quite a bit larger but has been carved back around the lip. The back of the shell has been smoothed off but still exhibits the periostracum (the outer layer of the shell) which protects the oyster in it's habitat.

There appears to be a hairline crack runing into the shell but it does not really detract from the beauty of the piece and it is structurally sound.

It is difficult to date the piece but is perhaps circa 1960s.

A wonderful piece of history and a unique gift for any special occasion.

Please get in touch if you have any questions about the piece. It will be a pleasure to assist. Please also check out the other pieces in the store.

Guarantee: The purchase price will be refunded, no questions asked, if you are not satisfied with the piece upon delivery.

Shipping: Free shipping each business day included so it will leave quickly following an order.

Peace of Mind: Every single order is fully insured.

Background: We are avid collectors across a range of interests but with a particular focus on high quality pieces featuring mother-of-pearl. We hope you enjoy the pieces as much as we have enjoyed the process of finding them over the years.

• Free standard shipping worldwide on every order.
• Express shipping is available at checkout for an additional charge.
• Orders are dispatched from Sydney, Australia, typically within 1–2 business days.
• All items are securely packaged and fully insured while in transit.
• Tracking details are provided once your order has been shipped.

Returns

We want you to purchase with complete confidence.

If your purchase is not as expected, you may return it within 14 days of delivery for a full refund, provided it is returned in its original condition. Return postage not covered.

Please contact us before returning an item so we can provide return instructions.