This matching salt and pepper set has every side wrapped with individually cut pieces of genuine abalone shell, their natural iridescence constantly shifts with the light. No two pieces of shell display the same pattern, so each shaker carries its own unique landscape.
In the early / middle twentieth century, artisans in Baja California, Ensenada, Taxco, and coastal tourist centers perfected the technique of transforming locally harvested abalone shells into shimmering mosaics. They would carefully cut each shell into narrow strips before fitting them together like miniature stained-glass windows.
Abalone has been valued along Mexico's Pacific coast for centuries. Indigenous communities harvested the shell for ornaments and ceremonial objects, while later becoming a favorite material for furniture, jewelry, etc.
Details
Date: c.1940–1960
Material: Brass with genuine abalone shell (mother-of-pearl) mosaic
Decoration: Hand-cut abalone shell inlay throughout with matching brass tray
Features: Original matching tray
Dimensions: Shakers: Apx: 2 inches high; Tray: 4.5 in. long, 2.5 in. wide
Condition: Very good vintage condition. Honest patina to the brass with light surface wear consistent with age. Abalone retains exceptional iridescence with minor age-related imperfections. Please examine photos carefully.
