Furniture
The first Sicilian cart drivers began decorating their carts with religious scenes or pictures of saints as a way of seeking divine protection from brigands and adversities during their journeys. Over the years these decorations became increasingly complex and the themes of the decorations more and more varied, including Sicilian puppets, the Cavalleria Rusticana opera, legends, history and much more.
Sicilian carts became a means of communication, a kind of book on two wheels. Their astonishing decorations would attract the curiosity of passers-by, who would approach and admire their beauty and at the same time read the stories they had to tell.
Decorating a Sicilian cart takes time, effort and dedication. It is a process of growth in which an artist strives to achieve perfection and sometimes lasts a lifetime. But there’s no doubt that it produces unique, inimitable works.
Artworks
Rinaldo
The rebellious and indomitable hero
The front triptych shows scenes representing Rinaldo’s feats, while the rear triptych depicts an eruption of the volcano Etna viewed from Taormina.
Rinaldo, l'eroe ribelle ed indomito
Work based on: Victorian Fire Screen (probably mid-19th century)
Dimensions: L 60 cm x H 125 cm x P65 cm
Rosanna Siciliano 2016 – Private collection
The battle for Angelica
Chimes of love
The ticking of the clock punctuates a battle in which the horses appear to dance in the last dying rays of sunlight. Orlando and Rinaldo fight over the beautiful Angelica, but her heart belongs to her beloved Medoro.
La battaglia per Angelica
Work based on: 1940s mantelpiece clock
Dimensions: L 60 cm x H 22 cm x P 15 cm
Rosanna Siciliano 2016 – Private Collection
Made by Sicily
Bespoke designs
Working on bespoke designs that carry on the art of Sicilian decoration is our pride and joy. Our love for this tradition is the foundation of all our work.
Our artists and craftsmen will be delighted to bring your ideas and projects to life, illustrating and decorating your favourite stories.