Pair Of Large Green Parrot Lamps

Pair of parrot-shaped lamps made of polychrome porcelain mounted on chiseled gilded bronze bases, in the Meissen style, with new lampshades made of powder-pink-lined silk and Declercq trimmings.

Electrification up to current standards

The fascination with so-called “imitating” animals—monkeys, talking birds, or songbirds—reached its peak during the Age of Enlightenment. In the 18th century, the parrot was the ultimate symbol of beauty and exoticism, evoking images of exuberant nature, warm seas, and pirates. It possesses a remarkable capacity for learning and even the gift of eloquence—a trait that is exceptional in the natural world.
Because of these qualities, it was highly prized by a cultured elite who did not hesitate to install aviaries in castle parks or to depict the bird in numerous paintings.

The bird is also a symbol of purity, thanks to its waterproof plumage over which water rolls off without penetrating.
For this reason, as early as the Middle Ages, it began to appear in certain depictions of the Virgin and Child.
Its popularity at princely courts reached its peak during the “singeries” fashion, when it took second place in the satirical imitation of the human race. During this period, Parisian haberdashers placed numerous orders, particularly with the East India Company, which imported large quantities of these porcelain parrots from China.
The technical mastery achieved by Chinese ceramists allowed for a beautiful imitation of the bird’s plumage, with glazes in very iridescent hues.
Once they arrived in Paris, these precious porcelain pieces were mounted on bronze and sold to members of the nobility.

Early 20th century

Total height: 60 cm