Victorian Brass Seashell Letter Holder

This charming letter holder is a whimsical reminder of the conchology craze of the Victorian era.

In the 19th century, as many Victorian's fascination and curiosity with the natural world piqued, a number of amateur scientific pursuits quickly turned into feverish obsessions. 

From pteridomania (aka fern fever) to conchylomania (aka shell fever), Victorians began amassing collections of various plant and animal species -- some for documentation purposes and others as trophy finds for their Wunderkammer.

One particularly popular craze was shell collecting. It was easily accessible to people of all ages and it did not require any sort of scientific instrument to enjoy. Shells also were not susceptible to disease and decay.

Women would use their seaside finds to make a number of handicrafts -- from shell adorned picture frames to miniature shell dolls. 

Shells became so popular during the Victorian era that soon their image began popping up on everything: Christmas cards, jewelry, furniture, art, housewares and more! 

This lovely brass letter holder is one such example of how conchcology spilled over into everyday life. 

Fashioned in a shape of a seashell situated between two branches of coral, this tabletop trinket has 4 slots to hold your letters, post cards, photos or whatnots. It's also just as lovely with nothing inside. Lots of possibilities with this piece!