Chinese Cloisonné Parrot on Carved Hardwood Tree Trunk Base Chinese, Circa 1960

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Chinese Cloisonné Parrot on Carved Hardwood Tree Trunk Base
Chinese, Circa 1960,
Two pieces: a cloisonné parrot and carved hardwood … Read more Chinese Cloisonné Parrot on Carved Hardwood Tree Trunk Base
Chinese, Circa 1960,
Two pieces: a cloisonné parrot and carved hardwood tree trunk stand

This beautifully executed two-piece Chinese cloisonné parrot is a striking example of mid-20th-century decorative arts, combining traditional enameling techniques with finely cast gilt brass and hand-carved hardwood. Perched atop a naturalistic carved tree trunk base, the sculpture displays the refined craftsmanship that made Chinese cloisonné highly sought after by collectors throughout the twentieth century.

The parrot is richly decorated with hundreds of individually hand-laid brass cloisons that define each feather before being meticulously filled with vibrant vitreous enamels and kiln-fired to create a smooth, lustrous surface. The predominantly black body is enlivened by intricate gold feather outlines, white-spotted shoulder plumage, and layered wings in warm shades of chestnut, russet, emerald green, turquoise, and deep crimson. The vividly colored face features brilliant turquoise blue, golden yellow, and rich red surrounding a gilt brass beak and expressive inset eyes, lending the bird remarkable character and presence.

The separately cast gilt brass feet grip a realistically carved hardwood tree trunk, its flowing organic form providing a handsome contrast to the brilliant enamel decoration above. Designed in two pieces, the parrot lifts easily from its stand, allowing both elements to be appreciated independently while also simplifying transport and display.

Parrots have long been admired in Chinese decorative arts as symbols of intelligence, eloquence, fidelity, and prosperity. Their colorful plumage made them especially desirable subjects for cloisonné artisans, whose medium naturally celebrates rich color and intricate pattern. While inspired by exotic tropical birds rather than a specific species, the sculpture captures the elegance and personality associated with parrots in both Eastern and Western decorative traditions.

A vibrant and sculptural work, this cloisonné parrot serves equally well as a focal point in a collection of Asian decorative arts or as an eye-catching accent in traditional and contemporary interiors alike.

Measurements:
Overall: 12" H × 9" W × 4" D
Parrot: 10.5" H × 3" W × 3.5" D
Carved hardwood base: 6" H × 3" W × 3.5" D See less