Nautilus & Thorny-oyster Seashells

Fine art print of seashells inspired by an engraving from the early 1800s by George Sowerby.

Featuresa Nautilus and an American thorny-oyster.

Shell collecting was a popular 18th and 19th century pastime. During this era of exploration, shells from exotic lands were eagerly sought by collectors and the genteel classes to fill their curiosity cabinets. In addition to their use in jewelry and as tools, shells were once commonly used as money on almost every continent.