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Seashells from the worlds' oceans have fascinated people since the dawn of time, and they continue to inspire study, collections, and decorative uses today. This new and stunningly beautiful book showcases seashells that have been assembled by shell artists in sailor's valentines, the octagonal-framed plaques with love messages and floral designs that were said to have been made by Victorian sailors as love tokens for their sweethearts at home. Learn their history, lore, and reality, and be introduced to exquisite designs, both antique and contemporary.

Over 200 color photographs, maps, and drawings reveal unique sailor's valentines and shell collectors' chests from England, Barbados, and the United States over a two-hundred year period. Modern sailor's valentines, created by 19 shell artists, display creative interpretations of the traditional style with a wide variety of materials. Their beauty is disarming and their appeal is universal. Enjoy this nautical and historic journey through time.

193 color and 8 b/w photos