Crowned by the Deep ~ Original Surreal Shell Portrait

Crowned by the Deep ~ Original Surreal Shell Portrait
Original illustration on paper by Carmen Delprat.
Illustration on Paper. 54cm x 73cm.
2025
 
 
Crowned by the Deep is a surreal shell portrait exploring duality, balance and inner sovereignty. The figure rests in suspended stillness, emerging from a softened marine atmosphere where light gradually dissolves into depth.
 
Her crown is formed from a zigzag nerite shell, its warm pink surface traced with fine black and cream zigzag lines. That rhythm introduces a quiet tension between contrast and harmony, creating both structure and fluidity while echoing the movement of water.
 
Rather than ornament, the shell becomes a natural architecture: a gesture of balance between light and shadow, strength and vulnerability. The portrait exists within this equilibrium, poised between clarity and dream.
 
Crowned by the Deep brings a contemplative presence to interior spaces, a piece that invites stillness without demanding interpretation.
 
Shell featured
Zigzag nerite (Neritina communis)
 
Materials
Derwent and Albrecht Durer coloured pencils on university mixed media paper. 300gsm.
 
Colour Palette
Cobalt blue
Lemon cadmium
Indian yellow
Rose
Light magenta
Vibrant red
Black
 
Perfect For
Contemporary homes
Coastal interiors
Luxury apartments
Boutique accommodation
Collectors of Australian art
 
Certificate of Authenticity
Every original artwork and limited edition print by Carmen Delprat is accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity.
The certificate confirms the title of the artwork, year of creation, edition number (where applicable), medium and dimensions, and serves as a permanent record of authenticity.