311 - CARLO PARLATI Important coral and gold sculpture depicting the head of Medusa

CARLO PARLATI Important coral and gold sculpture depicting the head of Medusa 1980s Total height: 17.5 cm. Weight: 368 g One of the most iconic mythological subjects in Carlo Parlati’s artistic oeuvre.The face, carved from a single block of Cerasuolo coral (Corallium elatius) of exceptional chromatic quality, displays remarkable expressive power, characterized by its open mouth, deeply recessed eyes, and luxuriant hair formed by intertwined serpents that unfold dynamically in space.Behind the figure, a dramatic composition in 18-karat yellow gold, fashioned to resemble wind-swept drapery, enhances the sculpture’s theatrical effect, creating a striking contrast between the brilliance of the precious metal and the warm hue of the coral. The composition is supported by an elegant twisted gold stem resting on a rectangular white onyx base. In Greek mythology, Medusa was one of the three Gorgons, transformed by Athena into a monstrous creature with serpents for hair, whose gaze possessed the power to turn anyone who looked upon her to stone. Since antiquity, her image has also served an apotropaic—or protective—function, explaining its frequent appearance in Classical, Renaissance, and Baroque art. Parlati reinterprets this timeless subject through a modern sculptural language, emphasizing its dramatic intensity through highly expressive modeling of the face and the swirling movement of the serpentine locks, resulting in a work of exceptional sculptural presence and visual impact.The sculpture bears the characteristic Parlati signature; the 18k yellow gold setting is hallmarked “750 – *242 NA” 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.