Nautilus shell commemorating the launch of SS Great Britain, 1843
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Object number2014.03608
TitleNautilus shell commemorating the launch of SS Great Britain, 1843
Creator Charles H. Wood (artist)
DescriptionA decorative nautilus shell in a glass case, inscribed with details to commemorate the launch of the SS Great Britain in 1843. The ink in all carvings has faded and the decorations are difficult to distinguish now.
On the front of the shell is an image of the SS Great Britain in the configuration she was launched in at Bristol in 1843 (six masts, all fore-and-aft rigged). On the back of the shell are details and dimensions of the vessel.
The shell is attributed to the artist C. H. Wood, who created most of these decorative shells of the SS Great Britain in the 1840s and 1850s.
The shell is encased in a wooden frame with glass panels. It sits in a wooden mount and the case carries a brass plaque with a dedication: 'Frances L. D. Bere, from her brother Charles A. W. Troyte, as a token of gratitude to one who has nobly and faithfully fulfilled her duties as a Sister and Guardian to her orphan brothers and sisters. 21st July 1863'.
Object namenautilus shell
Object categorydecorative art
Credit line“Accepted under the Cultural Gifts Scheme by HM Government from Clive Richards OBE DL and allocated to the ss Great Britain Trust, 2017”