Lot 206: A TRIO OF LARGE CARVED MOTHER-OF-PEARL DEVOTIONAL SHELL PLAQUES, BETHLEHEM, 19TH CENTURY

A trio of large-scale devotional plaques hand-carved from mother-of-pearl (Pinctada maxima) shells. These works are characteristic of the artisanal carving traditions of Bethlehem, produced for the souvenir and pilgrimage trade during the late 19th century. Each plaque features relief-carved religious iconography and polished iridescent surfaces. The first plaque depicts the Immaculate Conception, inscribed at the base with LA PURISIMA CONCEPCION and surrounded by various symbolic attributes. The second plaque features elaborate openwork piercing and depicts the Last Supper, inscribed JERUSALEM above a Jerusalem cross. The third plaque depicts St Anthony of Padua holding the Christ Child, with the inscription SAN ANTONIO DE PADUA along the lower edge. The reverse sides reveal the natural, uncarved interior of the shells. 

Largest: L: 16.5cm