Large Shells

An assortment of large shells is available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of shell, metal and glass, all large shells available were constructed with great care. Find 190 antique and vintage large shells at 1stDibs now, or shop our selection of 4 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished furniture. Large shells have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Large shells are generally popular furniture pieces, but Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency and Art Deco styles are often sought at 1stDibs. Not every interior allows for large large shells, so small large shells measuring 3.55 inches across are available at 1stDibs. There have been many well-made large shells over the years, but those made by Art Vannes, Alfredo Barbini and Maitland Smith are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

Prices for large shells can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, large shells begin at $75 and can go as high as $18,403, while the average can fetch as much as $1,250.

Every time you move into a house or an apartment — or endeavor to refresh the home you’ve lived in for years — life for that space begins anew. The right home accent, be it the simple placement of a decorative bowl on a shelf or a ceramic vase for fresh flowers, can transform an area from drab to spectacular. But with so many materials and items to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in the process. The key to styling with antique and vintage decorative objects is to work toward making a happy home that best reflects your personal style. 

Ceramics are a versatile addition to any home. If you’ve amassed an assortment of functional pottery over the years, think of your mugs and salad bowls as decorative objects, ideal for displaying in a glass cabinet. Vintage ceramic serveware can pop along white open shelving in your dining area, while large stoneware pitchers paired with woven baskets or quilts in an open cupboard can introduce a rustic farmhouse-style element to your den.

Translucent decorative boxes or bowls made of an acrylic plastic called Lucite — a game changer in furniture that’s easy to clean and lasts long — are modern accents that are neutral enough to dress up a coffee table or desktop without cluttering it. If you’re showcasing pieces from the past, a vintage jewelry box for displaying your treasures can spark conversation: Where is the jewelry box from? Is there a story behind it?

Abstract sculptures or an antique vessel for your home library can draw attention to your book collection and add narrative charm to the most appropriate of corners. There’s more than one way to style your bookcases, and decorative objects add a provocative dynamic. “I love magnifying glasses,” says Alex Assouline, global vice president of luxury publisher Assouline, of adding one’s cherished objects to a home library. “They are both useful and decorative. Objects really elevate libraries and can also make them more personal.”

To help with personalizing your space and truly making it your own, find an extraordinary collection of decorative objects on 1stDibs.