The two shells

Decorated pairs of similar size of carved oyster shells are exhibited in Chinese museums, for example in Guangdong, where such artifacts were made during the nineteenth century.

In addition, countless examples of pairs or single shells of this type are available through various auctioneers – some reliable, and some less reliable – who advertise them online. Some of these shells also feature patterns formed out of perforations in addition to carvings and incisions. Another type of decoration for oyster shells typical of southern Chinese craftsmanship are painted motifs. Such shells were made for display and were usually combined with wooden object stands that are carefully crafted in their own right.

As the Museum Victoria reports online, this particular pair of shells was part of an Australian estate. According to the inventory, in the year 1889 different shells were displayed in various rooms.[Cf]