Gruner, Ludwig [Editor]; Landsberg, Karl A. von [Contr.]: The Green Vaults Dresden: illustrations of the choicests works in that museum of art (Dresden, 1862)

VI.

Nautilus Shell, mounted as a Drinking Vessel.

Height 19^ in. Breadth 10£ in.

It requires but a superficial glance at this thoroughly fantastic creation, to feel embarrassed as to
what time and style it is to be attributed. The shell itself is covered with a singular arabesque design
in relief, with whimsical but highly original figures of delicate execution, etched in black at various points
in the ground. The foot is formed by a silver-gilt monster like a dragon with eyes of garnet, terminating
behind in a spray of coral, and carrying a figure in singular armour, with legs like the tail of a fish, and
a tortoise for a saddle, which, with outstretched arms, bears aloft the shell. Another dragon-like monster
silver-gilt, surmounts the whole, and forms a finish to the extremely tasteful mounting of the shell. It is
not to be denied that this strange design produces an harmonious effect; and presents an interesting riddle,
the solution of which is wanting. Neither monogram nor other, mark exists on this piece to assist in
determining its origin.