Overview
This is the calcium carbonate skeleton of a solitary coral known as a Mushroom Coral, prized for its striking radial symmetry.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is the calcium carbonate skeleton of a solitary coral known as a Mushroom Coral, prized for its striking radial symmetry.
Story
Victorian explorers once filled 'Cabinets of Curiosities' with these 'stony flowers' to showcase the alien wonders of the deep. While most reef-building corals are stationary, the Mushroom Coral is a nomadic rebel of the ocean, capable of using its fleshy…
Maker / Origin
Nature is the sole architect here, specifically a single coral polyp that spent years secreting aragonite to build this intricate home.
Condition & Value
The specimen appears to be in very good condition with the majority of its delicate septa intact. There is some minor debris visible in the deeper crevices, which is typical for a piece of this age. The lack of major perimeter chips significantly helps its display value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375