Antique Chinese Barrel-Form Birdcage with Blue Waterpots

This charming, barrel-form birdcage was once home to the pet songbird of a Qing-dynasty aristocrat. Bird-keeping was a popular pastime throughout the Qing dynasty and inspired its own material culture of beautiful cages and fine accessories. Dated to the late 19th century, this sleek birdcage was carefully assembled from thin bamboo rods with a squared base and sloping sides. The cage hangs from a large brass hook decorated with tiny critters and grapevines and secured by an elaborate base shaped to resemble a double gourd, a symbol of longevity and health.

The birdcage is filled with delicate accessories, including a woven straw mat and a straight perch, textured to resemble a tree branch. Three delicate porcelain cups for holding water and birdseed are fastened to the sides of the cage by carved wooden pieces, each finished with a bright blue glaze. An additional cup carved from dark hardwood is mounted to one side and a small tortoiseshell scroll charm decorates the far side. A fantastic collector's item, we love this elegant birdcage as a storied sculptural object and a keepsake from a bygone era.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.

Porcelain water pots and other accessories will be packaged separately during shipping. Due to its fragility, this item is only available via white glove delivery or local pickup.