19th century pilgrim's souvenir from The Holy Land, mother of pearl carved shell

  
Late 19th century large Mother of Pearl carved shell depicting Jesus. This large shell is rich in decoration and symbolism and has been exceptionally well carved in high and low relief with engraved panels and intricately pierced ornamentation. This shell was made in Bethlehem during the last decades of the 19th century and is a beautiful and fascinating cross cultural item. Skilfully crafted, the scene depicts Jesus surrounded by angels during his Resurrection. Most shells of this type show the Nativity scene, this Resurrection scene however, is a more rare and collectable piece. Some chips to the edge. This large shell is rich in decoration and symbolism and has been exceptionally well carved in high and low relief with engraved panels and intricately pierced ornamentation This shell was made in Bethlehem during the last decades of the 19th century and is a beautiful and fascinating cross cultural item. 13.8 cm tall 13.5 cm wide 1.5 cm thick Very good antique condition. Some chips to the e.