Description
Group of two Chinese export porcelain biscuit glazed parrots, ca. 19th century. Each modeled with a slightly open beak perched on pierced rockwork. The larger decorated in an "egg and spinach" pattern.
Provenance: The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Sargent, "The Copeland Collection," pg. 88-9, no. 36; pg. 92-3, no. 38.
Lot Essay:
Parrots were much admired by Europeans for their exotic nature, colorful plumage, mimicry, and longevity. Introduced in Europe in the late 15th to early 16th century, they quickly became popular as domestic pets. Along with their presence on porcelain serving wares, they were also portrayed in Dutch still life paintings of the 17th century.
Porcelain figures of parrots were made almost exclusively for the export market despite the symbolism attached to them in Chinese culture. The figures appear to have first been introduced in the Kangxi period in response to Western demand for 'curiosities'. Examples are recorded in the collections of Queen Hedvig Eleonora of Sweden (1636-1715) and Augustus the Strong as early as 1700.
The figures were often mounted in ormolu as table ornaments and candelabra in the mid-18th century in France. Their popularity led to European replicas produced around 1730-1745. Production of these figures in China is evidenced until at least the mid-17th century as one was recovered from the wreck of the Geldermalsen (1752).
(Larger) height: 7 1/2 in x width: 2 1/4 in x depth: 3 1/2 in. (Smaller) height: 5 in x width: 1 1/2 in x depth: 2 in.
Provenance: The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff.
Reference: Sargent, "The Copeland Collection," pg. 88-9, no. 36; pg. 92-3, no. 38.
Lot Essay:
Parrots were much admired by Europeans for their exotic nature, colorful plumage, mimicry, and longevity. Introduced in Europe in the late 15th to early 16th century, they quickly became popular as domestic pets. Along with their presence on porcelain serving wares, they were also portrayed in Dutch still life paintings of the 17th century.
Porcelain figures of parrots were made almost exclusively for the export market despite the symbolism attached to them in Chinese culture. The figures appear to have first been introduced in the Kangxi period in response to Western demand for 'curiosities'. Examples are recorded in the collections of Queen Hedvig Eleonora of Sweden (1636-1715) and Augustus the Strong as early as 1700.
The figures were often mounted in ormolu as table ornaments and candelabra in the mid-18th century in France. Their popularity led to European replicas produced around 1730-1745. Production of these figures in China is evidenced until at least the mid-17th century as one was recovered from the wreck of the Geldermalsen (1752).
(Larger) height: 7 1/2 in x width: 2 1/4 in x depth: 3 1/2 in. (Smaller) height: 5 in x width: 1 1/2 in x depth: 2 in.
Condition
The largest parrot has a hole in the top of the head and repaired cracks radiating from this hole around the head. Some crazing to the glaze throughout. Light wear to the footrims.
Buyer's Premium
30%
2 Biscuit Glazed Export Parrot Figures
Estimate $400-$800
Starting Bid
$200
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Shipping & Pickup DetailsItem located in: St. Paul, MN, US Local pickup available Arrange Your Own Shipping
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This auction is curated by:
Sean BlanchetAsian Art Specialist
Robert SnellPaintings and Sculpture Specialist
Leo & Doris Hodroff Chinese Export Collection
Nov 12, 2026, 11:00 AM ESTSt. Paul, MN, United States
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