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Antique Abalone and Mother of PearlTatting Shuttle with Original Thread and Tatted Lace
A lovely antique tatting shuttle made from natural shell, with a different face on each side. One side is abalone, full of iridescent green, blue, purple and pink fire with dark wavy growth lines running along its length. The other side is creamy mother of pearl with a soft luster and dark green markings toward the tips, where the natural outer layer of the shell shows through. Held up to the light, the shell glows with a warm golden translucence. It is a beautiful little object to turn in the hand.
The two shell halves are joined to a center post by two small metal studs, which show as round silver-toned dots on each face. This is the original construction, in the traditional pointed boat shape that lets the shuttle pass cleanly through the work.
Best of all, it still carries its thread. A length of pink cotton is wound on the center post, and at the end are the remnants of tatted lace, small rings and picots from an unfinished project. It is a charming reminder of the hands that last used it.
This style of pinned shell shuttle was made from the later Victorian era into the early 20th century. Tatting was a favorite needlework of the period, and a fine shell shuttle was a prized part of a lady\'s workbasket.
A wonderful piece for collectors of antique sewing tools, needlework and tatting, or for a working tatter who would enjoy using a piece of history. It would also display beautifully in a sewing collection or shadow box.
SIZE2 1/2 inches long7/8 inch across at the widest pointAbout 1/3 inch thickCONDITION
Very good antique condition. No chips, cracks or breaks to either shell face, and the pinned construction is sound. The shell shows natural surface marks, tiny pale specks and fine light scratches consistent with age and use, most visible when held to the light, as shown in the backlit photos. There is some light age discoloration along one edge. The original thread and tatted remnant are included as found and have not been removed or cleaned.
Please note: color of the item may vary slightly from the photos due to different monitor displays, lighting conditions, and camera settings. We do our best to accurately capture and describe the true color of every item.
Please review all photos closely, as they form an important part of the condition report. Additional photos are available on request, and we are happy to answer any questions before you buy.
ABOUT THIS SELLERWelcome to Times Gone By!We are Terry and Sue, a husband and wife team who have spent many years collecting vintage treasures and antiquities we truly love. Now retired, we are gradually downsizing our collection and sharing pieces with new homes. Some items listed are sourced for resale, while others come directly from our own personal collection built over the years. Every item is inspected closely and photographed in detail so you can shop with confidence. We describe condition as accurately and honestly as possible, including any flaws, so there are no surprises when your item arrives. All items ship within 1–2 business days of payment, carefully packed to ensure safe arrival. We welcome questions before you buy, and we stand behind every item we sell. Thank you for taking the time to visit our shop and for supporting a small, retired collector-run business. We hope you find something as special as it was to us. We would never intentionally misrepresent anything and try to describe all items to the best of my ability. Most of what we offer is used, vintage or antique and their condition will reflect that. Potential buyers should do their own research and use their own expertise before purchasing.Thank you for looking! 😊✌
