Seashell turtle pyramid figurine

This decorative figurine is crafted from natural seashells arranged and glued to form a pyramid shape resembling a stack of sea turtles. The sculpture features six small turtle figures assembled in a layered structure: a base row of four turtles, a middle layer of two, and a single turtle resting at the top. The turtle shells are made from various patterned brown and white cowrie and other small sea shells, while their heads, flippers, and bodies utilize smaller white and cream-colored shells. Several of the turtles are accessorized with tiny wire-rimmed glasses and miniature straw-like hats in colors including red, dark green, and yellow. There are no visible maker's marks, signatures, or branding on the visible exterior of the piece. The overall condition appears intact with minor signs of adhesive at the joints, consistent with handcrafted novelty shell art typically sold in coastal souvenir shops. The style suggests a mid-to-late 20th-century or contemporary creation, reflecting popular folk art and tourist craft traditions. The identification is based purely on visual observation of the materials and construction, with no brand or specific maker claimed.

Based on what I can see in the photograph, this decorative figurine appears to be a mid-to-late 20th-century or contemporary novelty piece crafted from natural seashells arranged in a pyramid of stacked sea turtles. The sculpture features layered cowrie and small sea shells, complemented by miniature hats and wire-rimmed glasses on several figures. I cannot verify from a photo alone the exact age, origin, or durability of the adhesive used at the joints, and I would need physical inspection to confirm the exact materials and construction quality. Because this item lacks visible maker's marks, signatures, or branding, any classification as coastal folk art or tourist souvenir craft is based purely on visual observation and typical market typology rather than a confirmed provenance. The estimated value range of $25 to $50 reflects typical market behavior and demand for novelty shell crafts of this type in secondary decorative markets. If physical inspection were to reveal that this piece is a modern mass-produced replica, a contemporary copy, or created merely "in the style of" vintage coastal souvenir art, the value would likely decrease toward the lower end or under the estimated range. Conversely, confirming an older vintage or exceptional folk art lineage could slightly influence interest, though such novelty items generally hold modest intrinsic and market value. To fully assess this piece, an in-person examination by a decorative arts specialist or appraisal expert would be needed.