Model
Object number2015.92.1 a,b
Artist
Anna Marie Fiori
MediumPlastic/Paint/Wood/Metal/Adhesive/Shell/Velvet
Credit LineGift of Carmella Caparelli Ferraro
DescriptionHand-crafted model of Sicilian horse-drawn cart with decorative Rhea egg. Horse figurine is decorated with feathers, fabrics, and trim. Two-wheeled cart is painted with colorful patterns and scenes. Cart contains faux fruit and a Rhea egg. The exterior of the egg is embellished with fabric trim and has a gold and green globe at top surmounted by a green gem. Egg opens and has one hinge. Interior of egg lid is lined with red velvet and interior of egg bottom has five pairs of dancers dressed in traditional Italian costume; one of the dancing pairs is detached.Dimensions(a) Height 10.25, Width 3.75, Length 9.5.(b) Height 1, Width 0.75, Depth 0.188.
InscriptionsPainted text around the sides of the cart includes "RUGGERO A PALERMO", "BENEDIZIONE DELLA BANDIERA", "RUGGERO RICEVE I PRIGIONIERI", and "INCORONAZIONE DI RUGGERO". "RUGGERO A PALERMO" = Ruggero in Palermo;
"BENEDIZIONE DELLA BANDIERA" = Blessing of the Flag;
"RUGGERO RICEVE I PRIGIONIERI" = Ruggero Receives the Prisoners;
"INCORONAZIONE DI RUGGERO" = Coronation of Ruggero. Italian
Historical NotesMiniature horse drawn Sicilian cart with decorative Rhea egg. Anna Marie Fiori made this ornamental decoration for her friend and fellow member of I Campagnoli, Dolly Caparelli Ferraro. The Italian folk music and dancing group they belonged to had a life-sized Sicilian cart in their company, which they used in parades and at events. Sicilian carts, native to the island of Sicily, are recognizable by their ornate designs and colorful patterns. Anna Marie made this cart with the addition of a Rhea egg, which when opened, has pairs of dancers dressed in traditional Italian costume.
Previous owner
Dolly Caparelli Ferraro
Related institution
I Campagnoli
On View
Not on view
1931-1957
