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Penshell and Silvered Bronze Turtle Sculpture
$3,850
£2,932.95
€3,382.14
CA$5,453.62
A$5,855.82
CHF 3,150.91
MX$69,297.92
NOK 39,695.69
SEK 36,204.68
DKK 25,270.62
About the Item
A beautifully crafted tabletop sculpture combining silvered bronze and faux tortoiseshell made from penshell, dating from the mid to late 1970s. This piece exemplifies the era’s fascination with glamorous materials and bold, sophisticated design, characteristic of the 1970s glam movement that celebrated luxury, texture, and visual richness.
Penshell, a type of marine shell, was widely used in decorative arts as an ethical and sustainable alternative to genuine tortoiseshell, which historically contributed to the decline of sea turtle populations. The shell is carefully cut, polished, and applied to create the rich, warm look of tortoiseshell without harming endangered species.
The bronze elements were most likely created using the lost-wax casting process, a traditional technique allowing for precise detail and a refined finish. Once cast, the bronze was silvered, applying a thin layer of silver to the surface, lending a bright, reflective quality that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the penshell.
Over time, silvered bronzes develop a natural patina that adds depth and character to the piece, softening the metallic sheen while preserving its luminous quality. This aging process is prized by collectors as it enhances the sculpture’s vintage appeal and evidences its history.
During the 1970s, such luxurious and sculptural objects were favored by affluent collectors and tastemakers invested in the burgeoning glamour and high-style interior design scenes of cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Milan. Leading interior designers such as Billy Baldwin, Tony Duquette, and Elsie de Wolfe embraced pieces like this for their sophisticated blend of organic textures and polished metals, integrating them into lavish settings that balanced elegance with bold visual impact.
This sculpture’s aesthetic and period align with the work of renowned designer Gabriella Crespi, whose animal sculptures from the 1970s similarly combined precious metals with organic materials. Like Crespi’s pieces, this work balances elegance with a sculptural presence, making it a distinctive statement in any interior.
Crafted through a meticulous process involving wax modeling, metal casting, shell cutting, and surface finishing, this sculpture is ideal as a striking accent on a coffee table, entry console, or display shelf, bringing vintage glamour and tactile interest to sophisticated spaces.
- Dimensions:Height: 3.5 in (8.89 cm)Width: 13.5 in (34.29 cm)Depth: 10 in (25.4 cm)
- Style:Modern (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1970s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Kilmarnock, VA
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU883029153322
About the Seller
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