Natural Shell Dishes Appraisal

Pair of Natural Scallop Shell Dishes with Pearlescent Finish

This lot consists of two matching decorative dishes, each appearing to be a natural scallop shell that has been treated and possibly hand-painted or lacquered. The interior surface of each shell exhibits a luminous, pearlescent white coloration with subtle hints of opalescent pinks and blues, particularly visible in the play of light across its undulating surface. The exterior or reverse side of the shells, as hinted by the visible edges, shows a natural orange-brown hue, characteristic of many scallop shell species, creating a pleasing contrast with the polished interior. The edges of the shells are naturally scalloped and slightly irregular, demonstrating their organic origin. While no specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the provided images, the smooth, glossy finish on the interior suggests a careful finishing process, possibly involving a clear protective coating or lacquer to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal. Given the 'hand painted shell dishes' context, it's likely these finishes were applied intentionally for decorative purposes. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, focusing on preserving the natural beauty of the shells while making them suitable for display or as small receptacles. There are no obvious signs of significant wear, damage, or repairs, and the pieces appear to be in good, well-preserved condition, suggesting an estimated age from mid-20th century to contemporary.