19th Century Folk Art Painted (Extra Large) Oyster Shell with Sailboats, Lighthouse and Dutch Flag cased photo under glass in a simple

under glass in a simple wooden frame: 17 1/4

includes a hand-written note that describes all three

Carved of what I believe is likely cow bone

general light wear and a small loss to lover right corner

but started with fabric from a baby dress in 1902

19th Century Folk Art Painted (Extra Large) Oyster Shell with Sailboats, Lighthouse and Dutch Flag cased photo under glass in a simpleThe manner and relative fineness of this folk art (likely sailor made) shell painting says 19th century for sure. I've always got an eye for a good folk art painting on a shell, but this excellent seascape, purchased from a dealer in Maine, was an especially happy find, all the more so for having been painted on an oyster shell and an extra large one. With a Dutch flag flying from the lighthouse, so one presumes painted while at sea, far from home.