Showing objects in Skype video-mediated conversations: From showing gestures to showing sequences

•Showing objects can be done either as showing gesture or showing sequences, characterized different contextures of talk and embodied conduct.•Showing gestures are done co-extensively to the talking, and do not project an assessment.•In showing sequences, the showing becomes the focus of the interaction, and invites assessments.•Showing sequences can be distinguished as ‘informative’ or ‘evocative’.•Showing personal objects in video-mediated performs ‘intimacy-at-a-distance’.