Shankha Anglo-Indian (container for aromatic herbs and essential oils) This item is a fine antique item, usually identified as an Anglo-Indian decorative bowl or casket made of nautilus shell, decorated with silver-plated metal. Materials: Natural nautilus shell (or conch shell) with a pearlescent sheen, combined with embossed metal. These items often belong to Anglo-Indian art (19th - early 20th century), which combines Indian motifs and European forms. Purpose: The item can serve as a decorative bowl, a trinket box, or even a ritual object, such as the Buddhist sankha shell used on altars. These pieces often belong to Anglo-Indian art (19th - early 20th century), which combines Indian motifs and European forms. The object originates from India or Nepal and dates from the late 19th - early 20th century.