Coral Sculpture Depicting The Redemption Of Christ, Southern Italy, Naples Or Trapani, Second H

Magnificent votive sculpture carved entirely from a single branch of Mediterranean red coral, showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship. The composition features the glorified Christ ascending to Heaven, lifted by a host of angels and cherubs in a swirling vertical movement, echoing the theatrical and spiritual exuberance of the late Baroque.
At the base, a dense allegorical group of redeemed souls emerges from the natural knots of the coral, in a symbolic and animated narrative. The carving is of outstanding quality, with refined anatomical precision, expressive faces, flowing drapery, and a masterful use of the coral’s natural form to enhance its dynamic structure.
The piece rests on its original ebonized wood base, adorned with delicately carved coral applications in vegetal and rocaille motifs, completing its ornamental richness.
Total height: 40 cm – sculpture alone: 33 cm.
A rare and exquisite work, likely commissioned for a private chapel or an aristocratic collection, and a superb example of the coral artistry flourishing in Naples and Sicily in the 18th century.