I’m always impressed by the Shell House, and even more so by the patience and vision of the artists’ work. I love seashells, as I’ve written about in a previous blog post, but have never envisaged adorning the frontage of the place where I live with them.
It’s one of the most popular buildings photographed in Polperro. Although the Cornish cottage was built in the nineteenth century, the sea themed decorating didn’t commence until 1937 and took five years to complete by a married couple, who used the retired naval husband’s shell collection from around the world.
Standing, gazing up at the intricate patterns, one commemorating The Eddystone Lighthouse, and admiring rows of larger shells on window sills and ledges, I wondered had Mr and Mrs Puckey realised just how much praise their creativity would gain over the years. There’s even a tiny replica of their home overlooking the harbour, in the model village down the road.
Until next time.
Sue. X