Large Antique Convict-Carved Pearl Shell Art: Circa 1880, New Caledonia. With Stand.

Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia, is known for its association with pearl shell carvings, particularly by convicts who were deported there during the 19th century, including those from the Paris Commune. These carvings often depicted native men, the French and New Caledonian landscape.

The carvings produced by convicts in Nouméa are a significant part of the region's history and the tangible link to the history of the Paris Commune, as many of the convicts were exiled to New Caledonia after the uprising

This excellent example measures 17cm x 17cm. The natural shell would have been quite a bit larger but has been carved back to a shell of pure mother of pearl. Naturally, the best specimens fished were preserved for such pieces of art. It was likely carved sometime in the late 1800s by a convict and is a good example of the large wild shells that were once fished in the region.
A wonderful piece of history and a unique gift for any special occasion.

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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.

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