The skin of the stingray is covered in tiny enamel "beads". Towards the center of the back, the beads get larger and form a sort of "eye". It is this extraordinary part of the hide that is used for decorative purposes.
Shagreen is very durable which makes it great for furniture. In the 17th and 18th centuries the skins were mainly dyed green, polished with black lacquer and used as a veneer. This is when it came to be known as "shagreen". First popularised in Europe by Jean-Claude Galluchat, a master leatherworker in the court of Louis XV of France, it quickly became a fashion amongst the French aristocracy, and migrated throughout Europe by the mid-18th century.
Whether you incorporate genuine or faux shagreen into your decor, it will add a sense of luxury and exoticism and is both striking in look and touch.
Shagreen Console, 1st Dibs
Shagreen side table
Biomorphic shagreen side tables, 1st Dibs
Shagreen cuff, Karen Bizer
Shagreen bag, Celestina
Shagreen clutch, Celestina
Shagreen dresser, 1st Dibs
Shagreen
Gray shagreen desk with bronze base, Galart
Detail: Gray shagreen desk with bronze base, Galart
Detail: Gray shagreen desk with bronze base, Galart
Harlow nesting table, Clayton Gray
Detail: Harlow nesting table, Clayton Gray
Shagreen chair, Jean Michel Frank
Shagreen Regency chair, Karl Springer
Shagreen accent wall
Decorative shagreen boxes
Occasional table, Lyle and Umbach
Shagreen side table, Galart
Faux shagreen table, Om Home
Pair of French Art Deco shagreen torch sconces
Natural white shagreen chair, Aisthesis
Chair and ottoman covered in Creations Metaphores faux shagreen
Detail: Chair and ottoman covered in Creations Metaphores faux shagreen
Shagreen clutch, Oly Studio
Shagreen table lamp,Clayton Gray
Faux shagreen tissue box, Oka
Shagreen chest, Stanley