A Mediterranean tridacna shell - one of the smaller "giant clams". This half-shell has been polished to give it some sparkle.

The sirens of Homer's Odyssey lived on an island paradise in the Aegean, luring bewitched sailors to their deaths with their beautiful voices (and bodies).

Seashells are inextricably linked to mythology, especially in art. Their soft, pale curves have been linked by poets & painters alike to the nude female form. Think of Botticelli's 'Birth of Venus'. Truth be told though, you can assign so many different meanings to seashells that it hardly matters. Longevity, beauty, nature - the important thing here is that they look good in your home, and this one certainly will.

This kind of ornament should be displayed proudly for all to see, on a mantle, shelf or windowsill. It's pretty hefty, so make sure there are some daintier elements if it's fated to be part of an arrangement. As a seashell, it is also rather hard-wearing. An object for all rooms, whether inside an unused fireplace or proud of place on a table.

High detailed resin shell