Art Nouveau Mother-of-Pearl Last Supper Shell, Jerusalem, c. 1900

An antique mother-of-pearl shell carved in relief with Christ and the apostles at the Last Supper. The figures gather behind a long table, surrounded by scrolling foliage, floral motifs and a pierced lower border. A dark-lettered Jerusalem inscription appears beneath the central scene.

Attributed by the owner to Jerusalem and the Art Nouveau period, circa 1900, the carving combines a detailed devotional scene with the creamy lustre and iridescence of mother-of-pearl. The curved shell and openwork ornament lend depth to this compact piece of religious art, suited to a carefully arranged cabinet or supported display.

Details

• Item number: AO002
• Material: carved mother-of-pearl shell
• Subject: Christ and the apostles at the Last Supper
• Inscription: Jerusalem
• Origin attribution: Jerusalem, according to the owner; workshop unidentified
• Period attribution: Art Nouveau, circa 1900, according to the owner
• Dimensions: 140 × 145 × 8 mm
• Decoration: relief-carved figures, scrolls, foliage, flowers and pierced ornament
• A cord is attached at the top; its age and load-bearing condition are unverified

Condition

Visible surface wear, yellowing and discolouration, with irregularities to the shell edges and reverse. The attached cord shows fraying. Please examine all photographs, including the reverse and carved details. Do not rely on the existing cord for hanging without checking its security.