An early 20th century red coral fragment .
Chinese coral fragments were imported to the UK in the early 20th century due to a combination of factors related to fashion, trade, and the growing interest in exotic materials during that time.
1. Fashion and Decorative Arts
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a significant demand for exotic and rare materials in Western fashion and decorative arts. Coral, particularly Chinese coral, was highly sought after for use in jewellery, ornaments, and even inlays for furniture. It was considered a luxurious and desirable material, admired for its rich red and orange hues. The Victorians, in particular, were fascinated by intricate and ornate designs, and Chinese coral fit well with this aesthetic.
Chinese coral was often used to make intricate carvings, pendants, and beads, which were popular in Western fashion at the time. The demand for unique and artistic pieces from the Far East, along with the fascination with Orientalism, contributed to the flow of these coral fragments into the UK.
2. Global Trade and the Influence of the British Empire
The British Empire's extensive trading network in the early 20th century played a significant role in the importation of Chinese coral. As a dominant colonial power, Britain had access to many regions around the world, including China, where coral was sourced. The Empire facilitated the exchange of goods, including luxury items like coral, through its ports and trading companies. This trade network made it easier for Chinese coral to reach European markets, where it was sold to wealthy buyers, collectors, and artisans.
3. Interest in Exotic and Oriental Materials
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a rise in interest in "exotic" materials from the East. The Western fascination with Chinese art, culture, and craftsmanship was a reflection of the broader cultural movement of Orientalism, which idealized the East and sought to incorporate its aesthetics into Western culture. Chinese coral, with its vibrant color and rarity, was seen as a symbol of exotic luxury.
In addition, the popularity of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles during this period emphasized natural forms and intricate designs, which coral could beautifully complement. Designers and artists in the UK began incorporating Chinese coral into their works, adding to its demand.
4. Chinese Coral as a Symbol of Wealth and Status
Chinese coral fragments were also associated with wealth and status. The rarity of coral, particularly of the high-quality varieties that came from China, made it a desirable material for those looking to showcase their affluence. It was often used by the upper classes to create jewellery, accessories, and decorative items that would set them apart as collectors of fine and rare objects.
5. The Exportation of Coral from China
Chinese coral has been harvested for centuries, but in the early 20th century, technological advancements made it easier to process and export it. The increasing efficiency of shipping routes and trade logistics allowed coral to be exported in larger quantities to Europe. This allowed British buyers to source coral directly from China, further fueling its demand in the UK market.
In summary
 The importation of Chinese coral fragments to the UK in the early 20th century was driven by a combination of Western fashion trends, the allure of exotic materials, the global trading power of the British Empire, and the rising interest in Chinese art and craftsmanship. Coral's unique aesthetic appeal and symbolic value as a luxury material made it highly coveted, ensuring its place in the UK’s decorative arts and jewellery markets during this time.
Now the export of red coral is prohibited under Chinese law to prevent the decimation of reefs.
Size: 20cm high