The great majority of these unusual and sought after nautical artifacts were made by locals in the Caribbean Islands as trade and sale items for the visiting mariners of the world. This dual set is a very good example of the delicate geometry and precision work they required to show as finished presentation. The 'Valentine' designation comes with the aside that they were often purchased as gifts for loved ones back in home ports.
The dual shellwork valentine in this instance is housed in its original wooden octagonal frame set that is hinged to allow it to close together or hang on the wall.
