The Silk Road
Pearls/Coral
Gouache
13"x9 1/2"
2006
What is interesting about both pearls and red coral is they are both made of calcium carbonate The Arabian Gulf (Persian Gulf) has a long history of "Pearling". These gems of great beauty were worn by both men and woman. In the Muslim world the Pearl is the symbol of perfection. In the Hindu world the Pearl is a symbol of the Moon.
Red Coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea and has been put around the necks of babies to ward-off evil spirits. Sadly it is now endangered.