Antique Jerusalem Mother of Pearl Abalone last Supper Diorama Icon C.1900 Picture Art Frame

A particularly attractive and intricately constructed antique Jerusalem mother-of-pearl and abalone devotional diorama depicting The Last Supper, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, circa 1900.

Produced in the Holy Land tradition of finely worked mother-of-pearl Christian devotional objects, the piece is constructed upon an aged wooden framework and incorporates numerous individually cut, carved, pierced and engraved pieces of mother-of-pearl together with richly iridescent abalone shell.

The deeply recessed central scene depicts Christ and the Twelve Apostles at The Last Supper, after the celebrated composition by Leonardo da Vinci. Christ occupies the centre of the scene and is distinguished by a radiating halo, with groups of Apostles arranged to either side.

Rather than being a simple flat plaque, the composition is constructed as a genuine three-dimensional diorama, with the figures, architectural elements, columns, hanging ornament, background panels and foreground arranged on several separate planes to create considerable depth.

The surrounding frame is particularly elaborate. Numerous individually worked mother-of-pearl panels are engraved and pierced with scrolling foliate and stylised decoration, interspersed with contrasting sections of colourful abalone shell displaying beautiful natural flashes of green, blue, pink and silver.

Large carved mother-of-pearl foliate ornaments project from the corners and sides, while the frame rises to an elaborate central crest containing an engraved oval religious motif.

The reverse is equally interesting and reveals the traditional handmade construction. The diorama is built upon aged timber boards and retains a simple wooden easel support, allowing the piece to stand freely for display.

Mother-of-pearl carving was an important craft in Jerusalem and the wider Holy Land, with Christian devotional objects produced for pilgrims and collectors. Closely related Last Supper dioramas are catalogued by major auction houses as Jerusalem work of the 19th and early 20th centuries. A comparable example described by Chiswick Auctions as a Jerusalem mother-of-pearl Last Supper diorama/icon was dated to the 19th or early 20th century. Another example incorporating mother-of-pearl, abalone and olivewood was catalogued as first half of the 20th century.

A charming and increasingly collectible example of Holy Land Christian devotional art, combining considerable hand craftsmanship with an exceptionally decorative use of naturally iridescent shell.

Origin: Jerusalem, Holy Land

Date: Late 19th / early 20th century, circa 1900

Subject: The Last Supper, after Leonardo da Vinci

Materials: Carved, pierced and engraved mother-of-pearl, abalone shell and wood

Dimensions: Approximately 22cm high × 20.5cm wide

Condition: Good antique condition overall. There is age-related wear, minor movement, small chips/losses and imperfections to some of the numerous delicate shell components, together with expected wear and discolouration to the wooden construction on the reverse. The wooden easel support remains present. The various irregularities and surface variations are consistent with the age and handmade construction of the piece. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition report.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.