Rare Folk Art Shell Picture Nelson & Napoleon

This is a rare if not unique folk art shell picture dating from the early 20th century. The shellwork collage depicts Admiral Nelson’s fleet in pursuit of the French Navy, chasing Napoleon Bonaparte. The sea in the foreground has carved mother of pearl fish beneath the masted vessels. The colourful ships with flags and anchors have been created with a range of tiny different coloured shells and the sit on a ground of mussel shell pieces as the sea. The shell caption below reads “Adl Nelson’s Fleet in chase after Bone P.” The picture has been recently framed and has label verso for The O Shea Gallery London.