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Coral Decay 1

Sale price$22,250.00

Coral Decay #1

A Sculptural Remnant of a Dying Ocean

Coral Decay #1 is the inaugural work in John Brevard’s Decay of Time series—an intimate meditation on loss, resilience, and material transformation. This functional sculpture captures the haunting imprint of coral displaced by climate change, preserved in molten metal and timeless stone.

To create it, Brevard traveled the world collecting coral fragments washed ashore—casualties of acidifying seas and warming waters. Each piece was pressed into earth clay, forming a mold. Recycled zinc was then poured into the cast, burning the coral away and leaving behind a fossilized void—its delicate form etched forever into metal.

This rugged, metallic surface is crowned with hand-polished petrified wood—stone born of ancient trees, formed over hundreds of millions of years. Extracted with the utmost care from Indonesian rainforests, these rare specimens are uncovered by hand, without machinery, over months of meticulous excavation. Once in the studio, they are cut only with diamond blades, and polished over days to reveal their unique natural patterns—tones ranging from ivory to deep brown.

Zinc, a vital micronutrient in all living systems, is infinitely recyclable and naturally resistant to corrosion. In Brevard’s work, it symbolizes strength and sustainability. A thin resin finish seals the surface, offering tactile comfort and preserving its refined edge.

Specifications:

Materials: Recycled Zinc + Hand-Polished Petrified Wood
Size: 16" H x 14.25" W x 12" D
Color: Light Brown and Silver
Available Now

  • Part of the Decay of Time series, exploring climate and memory

  • Coral imprints cast from earth clay molds, burned out during zinc pour

  • Inlaid with ancient petrified wood, sustainably hand-excavated in Indonesia

  • Zinc is endlessly recyclable, durable, and sealed with a comfort resin coat

  • Each piece takes months to complete and is entirely one-of-a-kind

A quiet monument to what we’re losing.
Contact us to collect yours.
info@johnbrevard.com

Coral Decay Side Table
Coral Decay 1 Sale price$22,250.00