309 - CARLO PARLATI Female head carved from coral, with a gold setting adorned with diamonds and sapphires, on a malachite base

CARLO PARLATI Female head carved from coral, with a gold setting adorned with diamonds and sapphires, on a malachite base 1980s A refined sculpture depicting an elegant female face, carved from Cerasuolo coral (Corallium elatius) of a rich orange-red hue. The face, with delicate and stylized features, has half-closed eyes, a slender nose, and slightly parted lips, and is framed by abundant hair arranged in elaborate wavy locks and curls.The sculpture is enhanced by an elaborate and striking setting, crafted separately and not attributable to Carlo Parlati, made of yellow and white gold, featuring sinuous ribbon-like elements set with brilliant-cut diamonds and blue sapphires that intertwine with the hair. In the lower section, an extensive openwork structure in yellow gold, composed of a network of irregular circular elements, envelops the figure, creating an impression of lightness and movement. The composition is supported by a natural malachite base, characterized by an irregular surface and the stone’s distinctive concentric banding in varying shades of green.The reverse of the coral sculpture bears the incised signature “PARLATI.” The gold mount, bearing the inscription “FIRENZE,” is a separate element from the sculptural work and should therefore not be attributed to the artist. A pin fastening mechanism is also present on the reverse. Dimensions: 16 x 9 x 6 cm. Brooch dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 4 cm. Brooch weight: 114.4 gr. 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 exploit 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.