A PAIR OF CORAL, GILT-COPPER AND PAINTED-METAL AND CORK 'FANTASTIC GARDENS'

In the Middle Ages, Trapani emerged as the center of production for exuberant coral displays in the Mediterranean. Coral, with its rumored apotropaic qualities and distinctive aesthetic appeal, was the gift of choice from the port city for foreign dignitaries and royalty. By the seventeenth century, more than 40 coral workshops operated in the area. A variety of regional species are displayed in the present pair, shown both in the distinctive scrolling style of polished Trapani coral and as a natural element, with branches seemingly growing in a ‘mountain’ or ‘garden’ setting.
While it thrived commercially, widely known for its coral and mixed-media sculpture, Trapani and other port cities were subject to coastal raids. In 1670, Claude-Lamoral, Prince de Ligne came to Sicily as the newly appointed Viceroy and was subsequently involved with efforts to protect the area. Chief among these efforts was his commission of the guard building now used as the Museo Civico Torre di Ligny. While there, the prince formed an important collection of these refined coral works; the present pair was likely acquired by the family during that time.