OBJECTS OF NOTE | ART & CULTURE | CABANA MAGAZINE
Fifth generation antique dealer, Laura Kugel, examines the history and craftsmanship of red Trapani coral ~ a mesmerizing material that, much like gold, ivory and amber, has captivated across civilizations.
BY LAURA KUGEL | ART & CULTURE | 25 JULY 2024
Much like gold, ivory, and amber, coral is one of those mesmerizing materials that has captivated across civilizations, each weaving its own mythologies around it. The Greeks associated it with the tale of Medusa: as Perseus slew the Gorgon, a few drops of her blood splashed into the sea, solidifying and transforming into coral.
These early stories linked this mysterious substance to the process of petrification and a broader fascination with metamorphosis. Over time, its significance evolved, adapting to new religious and cultural contexts. Medusa’s blood was reimagined as the blood of Christ, symbolizing sacrifice, redemption, and protection.
Noteworthy centers for coral craftsmanship included Barcelona, Genoa, and Venice. It wasn’t until the 15th century that the Sicilian town of Trapani reached the pinnacle of the coral trade. The discovery of several reefs between 1416 and 1535 enhanced the artisanship of Trapani’s coral craftsmen, culminating in their own guild, 'Arte dei Corallari', in the 17th century. In their capable hands, this precious material was transformed once more, into ever more exuberant and sophisticated works of art.
Armed with saws and grindstones, they carefully carved and polished coral elements, which were most frequently set within elaborate gilt copper frames, sometimes further adorned with enameled decoration. One iconic Trapani artwork was the 'capezzale', a devotional plaque often in octagonal form, depicting various religious figures. As time went on, Trapani coral became a staple for any worthy Kunstkammer, and some great princely commissions came to life.
Over the years, I've been fortunate enough to handle several exquisite works of Trapani coral, with a marked preference for profane pieces. Yet I can never resist a good old capezzale, or at least works originally intended as such. One that hangs in our gallery, portrays Saint Michael slaying the dragon, a motif perhaps loosely inspired by Raphael and somehow less austere than other religious scenes. The gilt copper frame, inlaid with small coral elements, resembles orange waves dancing against a golden sea.
Interestingly, the central scenes of these objects were occasionally removed in subsequent centuries. Whether this was intentional or due to damage remains a mystery to me. It is thus not uncommon to find octagonal Trapani coral mirrors, a somewhat anachronistic addition to the typology of works in this material.
Because of their smaller size compared to regular mirrors, these carry an intimate dimension that reifies their delicate rarity. The lovely detail of small touches of white and blue enamel to the copper frame complements the striking coral tones, showcasing once more the Sicilian craftsmen's outstanding technique in a subtle yet elegant display. You could never tire of looking at them.
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