1745-1770
Parrot on a Ring
Artist/maker unknownCeramic parrots are among the most realistic and prevalent of the various bird figurines produced in Delft. Their popularity was perhaps due to the interest of Mary II, wife of William of Orange and queen of England, in aviaries. From about 1650, well-to-do Dutch families kept live parrots, which were appreciated as curiosities. Their cages were often hung high, close to the ceiling, and contained a stick or ring for the bird. Ceramic parrots like this one were a cheaper, decorative substitute for live birds.
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