Specimen of Mediterranean Black Branch Coral
A Very Large and Rare Antique Specimen of Mediterranean Black Branch Coral
18th Century
Size: 84.5cm long – 33¼ ins long
See: Finch & Co catalogue no. 12, item no. 11, for a smaller example
18th Century
Size: 84.5cm long – 33¼ ins long
See: Finch & Co catalogue no. 12, item no. 11, for a smaller example
Of particular fascination for collectors, coral consists of the accumulated skeletons of tiny sea creatures, the deposits of which form shapes resembling plant growth. Coral was therefore considered to be the quintessential Kunstkammer material, because according to 16th and 17th understanding it successfully united the three realms of nature: mineral, animal and vegetable.
The largest collection of coral branches remains in the Archduke Ferdinand’s cabinet of curiosities in Schloss Ambras. However, only three of the many examples displayed are of black coral.
The largest collection of coral branches remains in the Archduke Ferdinand’s cabinet of curiosities in Schloss Ambras. However, only three of the many examples displayed are of black coral.
Specimen of Mediterranean Black Branch Coral
SOLD
