Cryptic crossword clue
Figures on board covering obstruction around shelf 11

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 11 letter word MANTELPIECE

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "shelf" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case shelf = mantelpiece.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does MANTELPIECE mean?

MANTELPIECE noun
  1. A shelf that is affixed to the wall above a fireplace.

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