Title
Sailors' Valentines,New
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The story of Sailors' Valentines evokes romancemajestic sailing ships and long sea voyages, adventures in the New World, and daydreams of loved ones across wide oceans. It has been said that sailors made the Valentines at sea for cherished friends and family to pass the time and to bestow as gifts upon their return.Very rare and highly collectible, Sailors' Valentines are octagonal wooden boxes made of Spanish cedar or mahogany. They contain intricate, stunning mosaics made primarily of colorful shells and often incorporate sentimental messages. The mosaics are covered in glass and often hinged together in pairs. When closed, the shell work is hidden and the glass protected so that the Valentines can be stored safely for travel. Now fetching extraordinary prices at auction and antiques fairsas much as $35,000they were actually made by craftsmen at the height of the Victorian Age in Barbados, a familiar port of call for many American and European ships.Now, for the first time ever, these highly prized and rarely seen antiques are presented at almost life size in this innovative and stunning package that mirrors the shape of an actual Valentine. Here are over fifty magnificent examples, photographed especially for this book and beautifully reproduced in detail. Page after page, this octagonal volume, which comes in a deluxe cloth keepsake box, captures the experience of holding one of these magnificent treasures in your hands. Avid collector John Fondas shares his expertise on the history, making, and collecting of Valentines in his introductory essay as well as provides a detailed listing of the shells used in their construction.A collectible itself, Sailors' Valentines will delight shell collectors, antiques lovers, Victoriana fans, and romantics of all ages.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What are the dimensions of Sailors' Valentines? A: The dimensions are nine point nine inches in length, one point six one inches in width, and seven point two inches in height. This octagonal shape makes it a unique collectible.
- Q: How many pages does the book contain? A: The book contains ninety-six pages. Each page showcases intricate details and beautiful photographs of the Sailors' Valentines.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: The book features hardcover binding. This ensures durability and makes it an excellent choice for display.
- Q: Who is the author of Sailors' Valentines? A: The author is John Fondas. He provides insights into the history and craftsmanship of Sailors' Valentines.
- Q: What materials are used in Sailors' Valentines? A: Sailors' Valentines are typically made from Spanish cedar or mahogany and feature colorful shells in their mosaics. The glass covering protects the intricate work.
- Q: Are Sailors' Valentines suitable for all ages? A: Yes, Sailors' Valentines are suitable for all ages. They appeal to shell collectors, romantics, and enthusiasts of Victorian antiques.
- Q: How do I display Sailors' Valentines? A: You can display them in their open position to showcase the mosaics or keep them closed for protection. They are designed for both display and storage.
- Q: Is there any special care required for this book? A: Yes, keep the book in a dry and cool place to prevent damage. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve the colors and the integrity of the pages.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or replacement. Always check the return policy for specific instructions.
- Q: Can I find Sailors' Valentines at auctions? A: Yes, Sailors' Valentines are often available at auctions and antiques fairs. Some can fetch prices as high as thirty-five thousand dollars.
- Q: How are Sailors' Valentines constructed? A: Sailors' Valentines are crafted with intricate shell mosaics, which are then covered in glass and often hinged together. This craftsmanship can be traced back to the Victorian Age.
- Q: What themes are explored in the book? A: The book explores themes of romance, craftsmanship, and history related to Sailors' Valentines. It includes a detailed listing of the shells used in their creation.
- Q: Are Sailors' Valentines collectible? A: Yes, they are highly collectible and sought after by enthusiasts. Their rarity and historical significance contribute to their value.
- Q: Is this book a good gift for collectors? A: Yes, it makes an excellent gift for collectors of antiques, shell enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates Victorian history.
- Q: How can I learn more about the history of Sailors' Valentines? A: The introductory essay by John Fondas in the book provides in-depth information about their history and significance. It's a great resource for learning.