Assumption of the Virgin in coral, Sicily, 18th century
Height x width x depth theca: 24 x 21.5 x 7.5 cm. Total gross weight: 735 g.
The artwork, made of red Mediterranean coral (Corallium Rubrum), depicts the Madonna in the traditional scene of the Assumption, set within a wooden case with a gilded frame. The Virgin is shown standing, with her right arm extended in a gesture of welcome and her left arm bent toward her torso, while her left hand holds up a portion of her vertically draped garment. Her hair is gathered under a veil and a tiara, and her face—soft and delicate in its features—looks upward to the left. Her knees are slightly bent, suggesting genuflection. The figure is placed on a cloud-shaped base adorned with gilded metal stars; the same decorative motif also appears in the halo encircling the sculpture. In the background, there is a lace fabric with gold and red details.