436: A PEARLESCENT CONCH-TYPE SHELL WITH ETCHED VERSE

The spiral form shell with etched decoration is also inscribed with tiny text from the poem The Sea-Shell by Bernard Barton (1784-1849): 'Have you heard of a shell on the margins of the ocean, Whose pearly recesses the echoes still keep, Of the music it caught when, with tremulous motion, It joined in the concert poured forth by the deep. And fables have told us when far inland carried, To the waste sandy desert and dark ivied cave, In its musical chambers some murmurs have tarried, It learnt long before of the wind and the wave.'
Measures 4 x 4.25 inches.
Very good condition.
Provenance: The estate of Morton and Estelle Sosland.In Kansas City, the Sosland family name is synonymous with both giving, and the arts. Of their many contributions to the community, 'The Soslands gave one of the nation's finest private collections of American Indian art to the Nelson-Atkins' museum (nelson-atkins.org). The content of this auction bears testament to their keen eye and varied interests. No property has been added; each lot here originates with the Sosland family and sells without reserve.
$175 - $250