In collaboration with the Layan Foundation, under the patronage of HRH Prince Faisal bin Abdullah Al Saud, Alessandro has created large-scale works that celebrate Arab culture, the harmony of the golden ratio, and the richness of Islamic tradition. These projects embody a profound dialogue between history, spirituality, and modern aesthetics, positioning Alessandro as an artist capable of uniting East and West through beauty and symbolism.
Commissioned by Prince Faisal bin Abdullah, the visionary founder of Layan Culture, Alessandro Scavia’s life-size bronze camel sculpture stands as a monumental tribute to Saudi Arabia’s rich traditions. Created to mark the Year of the Camel 2024, the sculpture embodies the profound cultural and spiritual significance of this iconic creature. Its unveiling at the King Abdulaziz Cultural Center in Jeddah led to a highly acclaimed exhibition, held from December 10th, 2024, to January 9th, 2025, The Camel Through the Ages, celebrating the camel’s role in Arabian history and culture.
At the heart of this sculpture is its spiritual essence, reflecting the camel’s revered place in Islamic culture. A unique and striking feature of this sculpture is the incorporation of Arabic calligraphy, masterfully designed by the renowned calligrapher Everitte Barbee. One side of the camel’s hump features Surah AlGhashiyah (Quran 88:17), intricately cut through bronze to let light shine from within, symbolizing divine inspiration: “Do they not ever reflect on camels—how they are created? The opposite side bears the engraved phrase “Ship of the Desert”, emphasizing the camel’s role as a vital companion in the arid landscapes of Arabia. Together, these elements combine artistry with spirituality, transforming the sculpture into a beacon of cultural and religious reverence.
Alessandro Scavia was born in Milan in 1998. His family owns the centenary SCAVIA company, one of the most prominent in Italy and around the world in the high jewellery and Made in Italy luxury sector. From a young age, he demonstrates an extraordinary skill in the artistic field, from drawing to painting and to sculpting. In addition to running the company with his father, he works tirelessly to perfecting his many talents. During high school he designed and realised an extraordinary jewellery sculpture, named “The Throne of Saturn” presented in occasion of the Expo Milano 2015. This was his first international success, at only age sixteen. In 2016 he graduated from the American School in Switzerland and after a few months he obtained four professional diplomas in Antwerp (HRD), which attest to his mastery and deep knowledge in the fields of gemmology, diamond grading and jewellery design. At the age of eighteen, he actually began to work actively in the company. Driven by his great passion for art history and Ancient cultures, he began to sculpt stone and model clay according to the traditional method used since the dawn of times. His intent is not to reproduce copies from the past, but to reinterpret the historical and mythological themes of the ancient sculptures with a current taste and sensitivity. Unbelievably, he immediately acquired self-made mastership in sculpting, as he had an innate predisposition for fine art. Alessandro Scavia has a truly outstanding creativity and savoir-faire due to his full time immersion in the jewellery and artistic world and from the personal experience which he acquired by working in his family’s company since young age.
Alessandro Scavia, a visionary artist, has presented a masterpiece titled "The Throne of Saturn" at EXPO Milan 2015. This extraordinary creation, epitomizing Alessandro Scavia's debut, serves as a profound tribute to Mother Nature. The throne conveys the essence of abundance bestowed upon humanity through Earth's gifts.
The design is unique and impactfully conceived. At the very heart of the throne is a glistening, gold leaf wooden structure, resembling coiled strands, lending it a majestic and royal aura. A muscular leg centrally positioned symbolizes the tireless toil and enduring spirit of human endeavor. This central motif is flanked by twin cornucopias, each brimming with a lush bounty of handmade sculpted fruits made with silver, gold, and precious stones, signifying nature's generosity. The fruits are intricately crafted, their surface shimmering with embedded gemstones such as diamonds and rubies, emphasizing prosperity and fertility. The plush red velvet seating offers a stark yet harmonious contrast to the golden structure, adding to the throne's opulence.
Incorporating both a realistic and symbolic representation, Alessandro Scavia's "Throne of Saturn" is undeniably a tribute to both the magnificence of nature and the indomitable spirit of humanity.
Alessandro Scavia
Via Nassa 29
Lugano, 6900
info@scavialugano.com
+41 79 782 61 55
