MADAM – I’m late with my response to Terence Pike’s letter in ATG No 2261 (p67 – see right) in October 2016, asking about shell engraver CH Wood. Better late than never, I hope.
CH Wood was indeed a prolific engraver of shells in the mid-19th century. He is especially noted for the superb scrimshaw work done with nothing but ‘a simple penknife’ on pearly nautilus shells which he displayed at the 1851 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park and at the 1862 Great International Exhibition. One of these nautilus shells was presented to Queen Victoria.