Dolphin Underwater Scene Framed Ceramic Tile Art
Unbranded · Art & Decor > Wall Decor
Era / Decade
1990s: Aesthetic and materials are consistent with the 'Coastal Florida' or Mediterranean-revival decor trend popular in the late 1980s and 1990s.
Material
Glazed ceramic tile set in a heavy, textured cast plaster or faux-stone (resin-coral) frame. The frame mimics natural coral or coquina stone.
Condition
Good: The tile image appears intact with vibrant colors. The frame shows characteristic pitting and some minor edge chipping, which may be intentional to the 'distressed' stone look but should be inspected for actual impact damage.
Demand Level
Moderate: Coastal and 'Grandmillennial' decor is currently popular, but dolphin-specific motifs are a niche market often relegated to bathroom or tropical-themed spaces.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00
Comparable Sales
Similar vintage Mediterranean or Coastal tile art pieces generally sell for $20-$40 on eBay plus shipping. Pieces with specialized frames (like this coral-look one) tend to sit at the higher end of that range.
Description
Vintage coastal-themed wall art featuring a high-gloss ceramic tile depicting Atlantic bottlenose dolphins swimming over a coral reef. The piece is housed in a chunky, square, textured ivory-toned frame with a simulated fossilized coral/stone texture. Measures approximately 12x12 inches (estimated). Perfect for beach house decor, bathroom wall art, or 90s nostalgia collections.
Key Features
High-gloss colorful tile art; heavily textured 'coquina' style frame; dolphin subject matter remains popular for coastal and bathroom decor; heavy, substantial feel suggests quality versus plastic alternatives.
Authenticity Indicators
Likely mass-produced decor from a gift shop or home goods store (e.g., HomeGoods, Pier 1). No visible artist signature reduces the value as 'fine art' but maintains value as 'home decor.' Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Possible chips on the corners of the plaster frame; dust accumulation in the crevices of the textured frame; check for crazing (fine cracks) on the ceramic tile surface under bright light.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace for local sales to avoid high shipping costs due to weight; eBay or Etsy for vintage enthusiasts looking for 'Aesthetic' 90s room decor.
Selling Tips
Highlight the 'Vaporwave' or 'Coastal' aesthetic in keywords. Since this item is likely heavy, use 'Calculated Shipping' on eBay to avoid losing profit on postage. Take a close-up photo of the frame's texture to show it is stone-like and not cheap plastic.