306 - CARLO PARLATI Coral carving depicting a female figure

CARLO PARLATI Coral carving depicting a female figure 1980s Height x width: 4.5 x 3 cm. Weight: 13.6 g Carved entirely from a single branch of Cerasuolo coral (Corallium elatius) of exceptional chromatic quality. The composition is distinguished by the refined interplay between the sculptor’s intervention and the coral’s natural morphology. The female face, characterized by delicate features and a serene, gently smiling expression, emerges harmoniously from the organic mass of the material, while the outer portion preserves the branch’s naturally alveolar structure, skillfully transformed by the artist into an elegant ornamental element.The interplay between flawlessly polished surfaces and areas deliberately left with a more natural texture creates a striking sculptural contrast, enhancing both the coral’s lustrous brilliance and the complexity of its natural structure. This harmonious balance between figurative sculpture and organic form is one of the most distinctive hallmarks of Carlo Parlati’s artistic vision.The sculpture bears the characteristic Parlati signature. Antonio Uliano, Carlo Parlati. On the Coral Sculptures of Carlo Parlati, Ars Magistra Arts, Naples-Rome, 1983. Carlo Parlati is widely regarded as the most innovative figure in modern Italian coral sculpture. Trained in the centuries-old carving tradition of Torre del Greco, he transformed the ancient craft of coral carving into a truly contemporary sculptural language, elevating it beyond the realm of decorative arts to that of autonomous works of art. His body of work is distinguished by his ability to harness the natural forms of coral as the generative element of each composition, skillfully integrating them with gold, silver, and hardstones to create highly original sculptural works. Among the most celebrated subjects in his body of work are Adam and Eve, Bacchus, Ecce Homo, Venus, allegorical figures, and numerous interpretations of Medusa—a theme particularly well-suited to highlighting the material’s extraordinary plasticity, expressive power, and dynamic qualities. Item condition rating: ***** excellent. No obvious fractures, restorations, or visible repairs are apparent. The coral retains its original lustrous polish and displays excellent color consistency throughout.