Seashell carving

Dabdoub Frères, Bethlehem, Palestine, 19th century.

Mother-of-pearl carved with a scene from the New Testament. The Nativity is presented in the central field, flanked by the Annunciation of the Virgin on the right and the Resurrection of Christ on the left. “BETLEHEM” is inscribed in a cartouche below the triptych. The Last Supper pictured at the bottom of the shell is flanked by medallions of scenes from the life of Jesus.

H: 22.5 cm / W: 23 cm

Markings: Dabdoub Freres Bethlehem

UMP 16166

Purchased in 1919.

Souvenir mother-of-pearl carvings is associated with Christian pilgrimages to the holy sites in Palestine. A number of local families engaged in mother-of-pearl carving, passing down the craft from generation to generation. Most material was imported from the Red Sea. The craft peaked during the nineteenth and in the first half of the twentieth centuries.