An Italian carved coral, Nativity scene, Trapani, early 20th century

The nativity scene rests on an oval wooden base in which are inserted the characters of the sacred representation entirely carved in red Mediterranean coral (Corallum rubrum, Linneo 1758), which is also present in rough twigs as decoration and to create a setting.
The scene present the holy family standing on; it is possible to recognise Saint Joseph on the left holding a coral branch in his right hand as a staff, while with his left hand he seems to be pointing at the baby Jesus placed in the centre, higher than the other two figures and with outstretched arms, while the Virgin Mary, placed on the right, also seems to be pointing at him with her right hand.