G. M. (Eighteenth Century)
An Assortment of Shells on a Ledge
signed with initials G. M. along the center left
oil on copper
5.5 x 7.5 inches (14 x 19.5 cm.)
There was vast interest in the collecting of shells from the mid sixteenth century until the end of the eighteenth across Europe. Regarded as natural wonders they were admired for their diversity of size, shape, texture and color. Their exotic origin only added a further dimension to their appeal. This charming copper pays tribute to the lasting appeal of shells which continues today.