Exquisite example of a glass sponge sourced from the Camotes Sea in the Philippines, collected at a profound depth of 120 meters. To accentuate its remarkable decorative attributes, the intricate silicone skeleton has been delicately attached to a sturdy handmade metal base. In traditional Asian cultures, this item was historically presented to newlyweds as a poignant symbol of marital fidelity. It houses a pair of shrimp, scientifically known as Spongicola venusta, which enter the structure as larvae through its pores. As these shrimp mature, they become unable to exit and, intriguingly, spend their entire lives in a harmonious symbiotic relationship with the host. This particular specimen contains remnants of these fascinating shrimp. Dimensions: 23.5 x 4.5 x 3.5 cm Height on stand: 32 cm