Sailors’ Valentines originated in Barbados during the 1800’s as an offspring of America's whaling heritage. Originally called “Fancy Work,” these seashell mosaics in octagonal, glass-covered wooden boxes, frequently bearing sentimental messages such as “Remember Me”, “With Love”, and “For My Pet,” were undoubtedly treasured gifts brought home by sailors for friends and family at journey's end. Some hinged cases featured braided hearts while others had spaces to slip in original photographs.