I just bought a pair of Rococo mirrors with the original glass, for a clients guest bathrooms. And I thought it would be great to post about this art form!
Coquillage is the art of attaching shells to objects such as frames, mirrors or pieces of furniture.
Coquille is the French word for shell and the art of coquille goes back to the Rococo period of the 18th Century France when the shell motif was popular as a carved decoration.
The older pieces are really fascinating, as the shells were so different from those we find right now. When I was in Sardinia I had the pleasure of purchasing some amazing shells that had the edges tipped in a polished silver. The idea of using a piece of furniture with shells, is not restricted to a seasonal application. Think of all the wonderful examples of Coral that you are able to purchase. There are even some Coral pieces that have been cast in resin and look great in bookshelves and curio cabinets. Pottery Barn has these and you 
really can’t tell the difference. They also make great center pieces and the large clam shells are great to put soaps and shampoos in ones shower.
Yes, my thoughts are definitely going towards the ocean!
Have a great day!
Love,
Jamie
House of Turquoise