{"title":"Antique Coral Objects","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor centuries, coral has been one of the world's most prized natural materials, admired for its vibrant colour, rarity and symbolic significance. From intricately carved Chinese ornaments and Ottoman luxury objects to finely mounted European works of art and richly decorated weapons, antique coral has long been associated with wealth, status and exceptional craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Nicholas Wells Antiques, we occasionally offer a carefully curated selection of antique coral objects, including Chinese carvings, Ottoman works of art, mounted decorative objects, and antique arms incorporating coral decoration. Each piece reflects the enduring appeal of this remarkable organic gemstone and the skill of the craftsmen who transformed it into works of art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe History of Coral in the Decorative Arts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrecious red coral (\u003cem\u003eCorallium rubrum\u003c\/em\u003e), harvested primarily from the Mediterranean, has been valued since antiquity. The Ancient Greeks and Romans believed coral possessed protective powers, while throughout Europe and Asia it was worn as jewellery, carved into religious objects and incorporated into luxury furnishings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, coral had become an important luxury material traded along the Silk Road and maritime routes linking Europe, the Ottoman Empire, North Africa and China. Its rarity and vivid colour made it highly desirable among collectors and royal courts alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChinese Coral Carvings\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChinese artisans developed an exceptional mastery of coral carving during the Qing Dynasty, particularly under the reigns of the Kangxi, Yongzheng and Qianlong Emperors. Highly prized red coral was imported through extensive trading networks before being transformed into exquisitely detailed sculptures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChinese coral carvings frequently depict:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImmortals and Buddhist figures\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDragons and phoenixes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScholars and attendants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlowers, fruit and symbolic plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuspicious animals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMiniature landscapes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoral also became an important material for court ornaments, snuff bottles, brush washers and decorative scholar's objects. Its rich red colour symbolised happiness, prosperity and longevity, making it particularly appropriate for Imperial commissions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOttoman Coral Objects\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWithin the Ottoman Empire, coral was widely used to decorate luxury objects intended for the court and wealthy patrons. Sword hilts, daggers, flintlock pistols, writing implements and ceremonial objects were often embellished with polished coral cabochons or carved coral elements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOttoman craftsmen frequently combined coral with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGold\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilver\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurquoise\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMother-of-pearl\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJade\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRock crystal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnamel\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese richly decorated objects exemplify the sophisticated decorative arts produced throughout Istanbul and the wider Ottoman world during the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCoral Mounted Decorative Objects\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEuropean craftsmen also embraced coral as a luxurious decorative material. Throughout the Baroque, Rococo and Victorian periods, coral was mounted onto a wide variety of precious objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExamples include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaskets\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReliquaries\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCabinet objects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilver-mounted vessels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIvory carvings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRock crystal objects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardstone carvings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrand Tour souvenirs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoral was often combined with gilt bronze, silver or ormolu mounts to enhance both its visual impact and perceived value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCoral on Antique Weapons\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most striking uses of coral appears on antique edged weapons and firearms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollectors will encounter coral mounted:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOttoman yataghans\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShamshirs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKindjals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKhanjars\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlintlock pistols\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePowder flasks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCeremonial daggers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRather than serving a practical function, coral demonstrated the prestige of the owner and elevated the weapon into a work of art suitable for ceremonial or diplomatic presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Collect Antique Coral?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollectors are drawn to antique coral for several reasons:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExceptional natural beauty\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRich historical significance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine hand carving\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCross-cultural appeal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssociation with royal courts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncreasing rarity\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrong decorative presence\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause modern harvesting of precious coral is now tightly regulated, antique examples have become increasingly desirable among collectors of decorative arts and historic objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDiscover Antique Coral at Nicholas Wells Antiques\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur collection of antique coral objects reflects the extraordinary craftsmanship of artists working across Europe, China and the Ottoman Empire. Whether carved into intricate Chinese sculptures, mounted onto luxurious decorative objects or adorning historic arms and armour, antique coral remains one of the most captivating materials found in the decorative arts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe regularly acquire unusual and museum-quality coral objects. If you are searching for a particular piece, or would like advice on collecting antique coral, please contact Nicholas Wells Antiques to discuss our current inventory.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"chinese-20th-century-precious-coral-carved-group","title":"Chinese 20th Century Precious Coral Carved Group","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fine late 19th century \/ 20th century carved precious coral group depicting Chinese characters enjoying abundant lives. Figures playing board games, drinking and relaxing.\u003cbr\u003eChina, circa 1900\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDepth: 3.5 cms (1.4 ins)\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 9.5 cms (3.8 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 19.5 cms (7.7 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51236193173841,"sku":"18251","price":20000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_4b2bb1eb-be06-4c8e-b851-72e9815f1636.png?v=1749534626"},{"product_id":"chinese-carved-precious-coral-group-reclining-figure-of-guanyin","title":"Chinese Carved Precious Coral Group Reclining figure of Guanyin","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Chinese Carved Precious Coral Group Reclining figure of Guanyin with attendants. 369g\u003cbr\u003eChina, circa 1900\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 14 cms (5.5 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 24 cms (9.5 ins)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 3 cms (1.2 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe central focus of the group is the reclining figure of Guanyin, who is depicted with great sensitivity and grace. The figure is posed in a relaxed and contemplative position, with one hand resting on her knee and the other elevated. The carving of the figure is highly detailed, with intricate features such as the flowing robes and delicate facial features, adding to the beauty and elegance of the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51236199825745,"sku":"18263","price":14900.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_3d6a9c62-17f7-488e-8451-74412b049322.png?v=1749534444"},{"product_id":"japanese-carved-coral-sculpture","title":"Japanese Carved Coral Sculpture","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fine carving of a Stellar’s Sea Eagle descending into ferocious waves and catching a writhing fish\u003cbr\u003eChina, circa 1900\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions of coral only:\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 10 cms (4 ins)\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 17 cms (6.7 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 20 cms (8 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51242009919825,"sku":"14115","price":12000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_128b919c-4249-4315-b0ef-c6afc4562915.png?v=1749507077"},{"product_id":"rare-chinese-carved-precious-coral-group","title":"Rare Chinese Carved Precious Coral Group","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fine Chinese coral group on stand, carved as a group of wise men in a winged dragon \/ galleon sailing above a sea plentiful in fish. The reverse also carved in exquisite detail.\u003cbr\u003eChina, Circa 1900\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeight: 21.5 cms (8.5 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 23 cms (9.1 ins)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 10.16 cms (4 ins)\u003cbr\u003ePrice on request\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51242413457745,"sku":"12872","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_0e401087-2960-4d30-b5e2-250a93d649e5.png?v=1749505383"},{"product_id":"balkan-coral-encrusted-silver-yatagan-19th-century","title":"Balkan Coral Encrusted Silver Yatagan | 19th Century","description":"\u003cp\u003e19th century Balkan coral encrusted yatagan with a silver scabbard and walrus ivory grips with ‘ears’ of good size.\u003cbr\u003eBalkan, circa 1800\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLength : 48 cms (19 ins)\u003cbr\u003eLength including scabbard: 50 cms (19.7 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51274749575505,"sku":"25012","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A2514_05e98dc7-3a1d-4eef-89bb-95dc281e3ba2.webp?v=1750104178"},{"product_id":"coral-encrusted-dagger-with-sheath-turkish-ottoman-empire","title":"Coral Encrusted Dagger with Sheath, Turkish \/ Ottoman Empire","description":"\u003cp\u003e19th century Coral Encrusted Dagger with Silver Sheath, Turkish \/ Ottoman Empire. For collectors of antique arms and armor, this Ottoman dagger is an exceptional find. Its historical significance, coupled with its exquisite craftsmanship and pristine condition, make it a valuable addition to any collection.\u003cbr\u003eCaucasus, Ottoman Empire, Turkey, circa 1800-1820\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLength: 49 cms (19.3 ins)\u003cbr\u003eLength in Scabbard: 54.5 cms (21.5 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis magnificent coral-encrusted dagger, originating from the Ottoman Empire in the late 18th to early 19th century, represents the pinnacle of Turkish artistry and martial craftsmanship. The Ottoman Empire, known for its intricate and luxurious weaponry, produced daggers that were not only tools of war but also symbols of status and wealth. This dagger, bearing a striking resemblance to a piece in the Metropolitan Museum (accession number 36.25.763a, b), exemplifies the luxurious aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship characteristic of the period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51274761797969,"sku":"14051","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A2522_1cd9f610-5d5d-47b0-aa11-38b8b2577630.webp?v=1750104717"},{"product_id":"magnificent-red-coral-specimen","title":"Magnificent Red Coral Specimen","description":"\u003cp\u003eA large red stained coral specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLength: 79 cms (31 ins)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 77 cms (30.5 ins)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 30 cms (12 ins)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection EE10","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51285689106769,"sku":"96381","price":7500.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/background-editor_output_02dbe79b-a53c-4b74-8622-1d2bf176f57b.png?v=1750399261"},{"product_id":"a-superb-chinese-carved-pink-coral-group","title":"A Superb Chinese Carved Pink Coral Group","description":"\u003cp\u003eChina, circa 1920\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA fine early 20th century carved pink coral figurative group amongst foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWeight including base 1.3kg\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWidth 23cm (9in)\n\u003cbr\u003eHeight 25cm (9 4\/5in)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Sold Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51461156274513,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/a-superb-chinese-carved-pink-coral-group.jpg?v=1752740865"},{"product_id":"turkish-coral-mounted-dagger","title":"Turkish Coral Mounted Dagger","description":"\u003cp\u003eTurkish Coral Mounted Dagger\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis exquisite Turkish coral mounted dagger is a remarkable work of art, embodying the intricate design sensibilities of Ottoman craftsmanship. Its striking use of coral and fine metalwork reflects the style and luxury favoured by the affluent throughout the late Ottoman period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin: Turkey\u003cbr\u003eDate: Late 19th century\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Steel, silver, and coral  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 34 cm length  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: Excellent condition with only the lightest signs of age and minimal wear\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRichly evocative of Ottoman artistry, this Turkish coral mounted dagger finds parallels in notable museum collections, including examples held at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The harmonious blend of organic coral and meticulously worked silver exemplifies the decorative ethos of its period. Such daggers, often presented as diplomatic gifts or treasured heirlooms, underscore both technical prowess and cultural significance, standing as testament to a flourishing era in Turkish metalwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotable Features:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional craftsmanship:\u003c\/strong\u003e The dagger showcases ornate silver mountings and detailed coral inlay, each element precisely chosen and expertly set by hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDistinctive design:\u003c\/strong\u003e The harmonious silhouette and rich materials echo the refined tastes of the Ottoman court, with a unique interplay between bold coral and luminous silver.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCollecting value:\u003c\/strong\u003e This work of art is particularly rare, with its intact coral and finely preserved steel blade distinguishing it as a sought-after acquisition for collectors of Turkish antiques.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePractical value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suitable for prominent display in a study, gallery, or alongside a curated weaponry collection, this Turkish coral mounted dagger also serves as a focal point for those seeking to encapsulate the grandeur and exoticism of Ottoman artistry.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether enhancing a specialist collection or commanding attention as a singular decorative piece, the Turkish coral mounted dagger offers both historical resonance and enduring visual appeal—an authentic testament to the artistry and elegance of its era.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Collection ON10","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51461483397457,"sku":null,"price":29000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/files\/0W2A2498.webp?v=1752744539"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0935\/5873\/5185\/collections\/CORAL-SPECIMEN.webp?v=1783163762","url":"https:\/\/nicholaswells.com\/collections\/antique-coral-objects.oembed","provider":"Nicholas Wells Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}