Description:

The Great Eastern Steam Clipper Souvenir Shell by Charles H. Wood, 11th June, 1861

unsigned, the scrimshawed 'green turban' shell with an accomplished titled depiction of the steamer, its specifications and a dated presentation inscription
length 5.12 in — 13 cm

Estimate: $500—700 CAD

  • Dimensions: length 5.12 in — 13 cm
  • Notes: An English artist, Charles H. Wood created intricate presentation pieces carved in the style of whalers’ scrimshaw. Although little is known about his background or formal training, the precision and artistry of his work suggest he may have been trained as an engraver or gunsmith. Many of his subjects reflect a close association with both America and Australia.

    Wood is best remembered for his ornate engravings of the steamships Great Britain (1845) and Great Western (1837), etched onto the iridescent surfaces of large shells. These works were widely reproduced and promoted as exact replicas of a shell he reportedly presented to Queen Victoria. When the Great Eastern arrived in New York in 1860, Wood was present, selling his engraved shells to the public.
  • Condition: In good condition with minor chip

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

The Auctioneers will not undertake packing or shipping. The purchaser must designate and arrange for the services of an independent shipper and be responsible for all shipping and insurance expenses. The Auctioneers will, upon request, provide names of professional packers and shippers but will not be held responsible for the service or have any liability for providing this information. Reliable pre-auction estimates of shipping costs of lots offered in this sale may be obtained from:

PICK UP & SHIPPING FROM TORONTO:

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PakShip
Attn: Taurus Chan
Tel: 905.470.6874
416.293.8225
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PICK UP & SHIPPING FROM VANCOUVER:

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Flashpack
Attn: Wing Liu
Tel: 604-270-8989
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Denbigh Fine Art Services
Tel: 604-876-3303
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Armstrong Fine Art Services
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The UPS Store 424
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PakMail in Coquitlam
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For any additional questions, please contact us at [email protected]

CITES WARNING:
Restrictions exist regarding the import and export of species protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). This includes but is not limited to items made of or containing bone (whalebone etc.), ivory, tortoise shell, seal skin, rhinoceros horn and any other animal part and is strictly controlled or forbidden by most countries. Please review your country's laws before bidding on pieces made of or containing these restricted items. It is the sole responsibility of the buyer to inquire about and obtain the proper permits for artwork purchased that may contain restricted materials, if such permit can be obtained. Please contact the department for further assistance. For more information please visit www.cites.org

November 27, 2025 2:00 PM EST
Toronto, ON, CA

Waddington's

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $25,000:
25.00%
$25,001+:
22.00%

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
CA$0 CA$199 CA$10
CA$200 CA$499 CA$20
CA$500 CA$999 CA$50
CA$1,000 CA$1,999 CA$100
CA$2,000 CA$4,999 CA$200
CA$5,000 CA$9,999 CA$500
CA$10,000 CA$19,999 CA$1,000
CA$20,000 CA$49,999 CA$2,000
CA$50,000 CA$99,999 CA$5,000
CA$100,000 CA$299,999 CA$10,000
CA$300,000 CA$999,999 CA$25,000
CA$1,000,000 CA$1,999,999 CA$50,000
CA$2,000,000 CA$2,999,999 CA$100,000
CA$3,000,000 CA$4,999,999 CA$200,000
CA$5,000,000 + CA$300,000