Two carved shells c. 1670 - 1700

cornelisbellekin

natural stone pattern

circular oval feature

decorative element

egg art

appetizing

stoneware

ceramic

round circular shape

watercolour bleed

watercolour illustration

This delicate carving by Cornelis Bellekin, dating from the late 17th century, showcases the intricate skill of shell carving, a popular art form of the period. The piece, crafted from two carved shells, depicts a mythological scene with a mermaid and a human figure, set against a detailed backdrop of flora and fauna. The artist’s masterful use of light and shadow within the shell’s natural iridescence creates a striking visual effect. This miniature artwork highlights the beauty of natural materials and the ingenuity of skilled artisans, who transformed ordinary shells into objects of art.

Comments

rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

⋮

Bellekin transformed nature into art, producing objects perfectly in keeping with the 17th-century concept of a collection of rarities. VOC ships brought back oyster shells from the Indian Ocean, which Bellekin carved with scenes from Greek mythology in low relief: Perseus on his winged horse rescuing Andromeda, and the nymph Scylla reaching out to the sea god Glaucus.