Extremely Large Victorian Clam Shell (Tridacna Gigas)
Stock No
MA030
2025
- £2,000.00
- €2,383 Euro
- $2,590 US Dollar
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Item Description
A 93cm wide tridacna gigas Victorian clam shell of large proportions
This shell was used as a fountain within a substantial Victorian garden.
The shell is substantial measuring 93cm
Weighing in excess of 70kg
These clams were known to indigenous peoples of East Asia for thousands of years and the Venetian scholar and explorer Antonio Pigafetta documented them in a journal as early as 1521. One of a number of large clam species native to the shallow coral reefs of the South Pacific and Indian oceans, they may weigh more than 200 kilograms (440 lb), measure as much as 120 cm (47 in) across, and have an average lifespan in the wild of more than 100 years.
They also are found off the shores of the Philippines and in the South China Sea in the coral reefs of Malaysia.
This would have been exported during the Victorian era when it was deemed as a display of wealth. An interesting conversation piece.
Giant clams are still extremely popular although the export has been prohibited as they should be.
We feel that whilst these shells are protected the ones already in existence should be celebrated as historic natural pieces of art.
Item Info
Seller
Seller Location
Stroud, Gloucestershire
Period
19th Century
Item Location
United Kingdom
Seller Location
Stroud, Gloucestershire
Item Location
United Kingdom
Seller Contact No
+44 (0)7889 967736
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