Tropical Shell Display Tray with Original Labels
A beautifully composed display tray lined in black felt, holding a loose arrangement of tropical shells gathered from across the Pacific and Indo-Pacific. The collection spans a pleasing range of form and scale: a large striated conch with its characteristic flared lip, a half clam, a fossilised scallop, spiny murex, patterned cowries in several sizes, a cluster of tiny porcelain-smooth miniatures, and more.
One of the larger shells retains its original operculum - the dark disc the animal used to seal the shell opening. It's an uncommon find.
Several shells carry small folded paper labels tucked inside them, hinting at a careful collector who knew exactly what they had. The painted timber frame with its central handle cutout is classic natural history cabinetry.
Please note this tray does not come with the original glass but one could be cut to fit.
Condition: Good vintage condition.
Dimensions: 460 x 335 x 70mm
Pickup available at The Workers Cottage Shop
Usually ready in 2 hours
Shipping
We provide reliable, flat-rate shipping across New Zealand and Australia. Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the size of the largest item in your order.
Our Flat-Rate Tiers:
- Extra Small: For very small items such as textiles and post card sized items.
- Small: Including small ceramics, books, and smaller vases.
- Standard (Medium): For medium vases and mid-sized artworks.
- Large & Heavy: Oversized pieces, including mirrors, large lamps, and larger framed art.
Rural NZ Delivery:
Available for a small additional surcharge, please select this option at check out if you live at a rural address.
Premium Packaging:
We use heavy-duty, professional materials - including double-boxing for fragile items - to ensure your items arrive in perfect condition.
International & Urgent Requests:
We ship worldwide on request. For international quotes or urgent overnight shipping (including same-day Nelson delivery), please email chrissy@theworkerscottage.co.nz.
Return policy
A Life Lived
Please appreciate that when you acquire a piece from The Workers Cottage, you are purchasing an object that has already lived a full life. All of our items are antique or vintage; they are beautifully timeworn and will naturally exhibit signs of age and use. We consider this patina to be a vital part of their unique charm and history.
Transparency & Detail
We take great care to disclose the condition of every piece through detailed photography and descriptions, including any notable imperfections. To ensure you are entirely confident in your purchase, we are happy to provide additional photos or videos upon request—please simply get in touch.
Final Sale Policy
To maintain our curated collection, all sales are final. We do not offer refunds, returns, or exchanges for change of mind. We kindly ask that you shop mindfully and reach out with any queries prior to completing your purchase.
Why buy from us
Unique Discovery: Curated, one-of-a-kind antique and vintage treasures.
Expert Protection: Specialist, break-safe packing using premium materials.
Full Visibility: Fully tracked shipping across New Zealand and Australia.
Boutique Support: Personal, friendly service from our studio in Nelson, NZ.