Museo del Corallo di Casa Ascione: A Family's 170-Year Legacy of Neapolitan Coral Art
Founded in 1855 by Giovanni Ascione, the Museo del Corallo di Casa Ascione in Naples celebrates 170 years of coral artistry. Transitioning from fishing to jewelry manufacturing in Torre del Greco, the family became prominent in jewelry design. Opened in 2001 to mark the company's 150th anniversary, the museum, crafted by architect Paola Ascione, acts as both a showroom and a living archive. It houses over 300 pieces, such as a parure belonging to Queen Farida of Egypt and a cradle for Princess Maria Pia of Savoia. The collection emphasizes Mediterranean red coral and cameo carving, with influences from Bauhaus. Giancarlo Ascione considers the museum a commitment to preserving the city’s cultural legacy.
Key facts
- Museo del Corallo di Casa Ascione is located in Galleria Umberto I, Naples.
- The Ascione family has been producing coral art for over 170 years since 1855.
- The museum was inaugurated in 2001 for the company's 150th anniversary.
- The museum displays over 300 objects, including coral and cameo pieces.
- A parure made for Queen Farida of Egypt in 1938 is a highlight.
- A cradle for Princess Maria Pia of Savoia (1934) is now at Reggia di Caserta.
- The museum was designed by architect Paola Ascione.
- Giancarlo Ascione, a family representative, describes the museum as a social responsibility initiative.
Entities
Artists
- Giovanni Ascione
- Domenico Ascione
- Giancarlo Ascione
- Paola Ascione
Institutions
- Museo del Corallo di Casa Ascione
- Casa Ascione
- Reggia di Caserta
- Teatro San Carlo
- Artuu Magazine
Locations
- Naples
- Italy
- Torre del Greco
- Galleria Umberto I
- Villa Rosebery
- Caserta