Collecting Shell Art

I have been collecting shell art for many years, but didn't realize it. I have always been attracted to little trinket boxes made out of shells to hold earrings at bedside. One day I looked around and realized that I had more than a few items of this art form. Here are a few of the pieces in my collection.

The shells on this vintage lamp have turned a lovely amber color. It sits on a desk with the box above and a sea shell frame that is new. There is a big difference between new and vintage.

This frame from Z Gallerie is new.

However, these bookends are definitely vintage.

A rare example of vintage shell tramp art. I was told this is French.

This wonderful old lighthouse night light was a recent find. The shells are glued on cardboard.

Another recent find is this shell mirror. It probably started out as a picture frame. Also known as a "Sailor's Valentine."

This shell art lantern arrived today from Wisteria. It is much larger than I thought! Although it isn't vintage, it will be great up in the wine country on a warm summer night.

This is the first in a series I am doing about collecting, featuring my own collections, as well as others. I am fascinated by what people collect and am always interested in learning about what makes something desirable as a collection.

So.....What do you collect?

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Antiquing on New Year's Day in the Wine Country

It was a dreary, rainy day in the wine country today. All the stores were closed, except the three antique collectives in Healdsburg. It just felt like the right thing to do - hunting and gathering. We started out with an old fashioned breakfast at a local diner, then on to exploring every nook and cranny at "Healdsburg Classics".

As soon as we walked in the door, we saw Mike, the owner. He is always good for a story or two. I love his Irish brogue.

The inside is enormous and filled with collectibles, antiques and just plain junk. But one man's junk is another man's treasure!

I especially loved these weathered columns. I passed them up though, but found a wonderful hanging lantern and eight dinner plates from the same dealer.

I love this crystal sconce.

On the way out, I admired this lovely old fountain. Wish I had a place for it.

Across the street is the Antique Harvest Antique Collective.

It was much warmer in here, thanks to this wonderful pot belly stove.

A little chicken wire cage filled with herbs from Ron Morgan Antiques. He has a space in this collective and is well known around the Bay Area.

He even has his own book!

Down the street is Myra Hoefer Design, a very upscale shop specializing in French antiques. Unfortunately, it was closed. Myra is the wife of Wade Hoefer, a very talented artist.

I'm crazy for these Anduze pots and have tried to buy them from her, but they're not for sale! The painting on the burlap chair is an original buy Wade.

Inside the store.

Over to Mill Street Antiques. It's more like a garage sale in here. Although, we have found some wonderful treasures here. Like a matching pair of cement columns we now have sitting outside our living room in Asti.

On our way back home we passed by lots of vineyards. The fog on the hills was so moody, I had to stop and take a picture.

This old sign is so retro!

Back home, we admired our finds. I bought these plates--perfect in the wine country with the grape pattern. As if I need another plate!

This lantern may go in our entry at home. Otherwise, I'll have to add it to my "collection" of light fixtures. Another weakness!

What a great way to spend New Year's Day.

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