Charming Folk Art Glazed Terracotta Bird Whistle - 3½"

This charming little glazed terracotta bird whistle is a delightful piece of folk art, modeled as a plump bird with a small pointed beak, a gently upturned tail and a rounded body resting on a circular base. Its sweet, almost comical expression comes from its little round eyes, picked out in green, while the rich chestnut-brown glaze is enlivened by lively splashes of turquoise. The wings are simply modeled, with a few lines suggesting feathers. There are small chips around the mouthpiece at the tail, while the base shows signs of wear and what appear to be areas of later paint retouching. Despite its age and wear, the little bird still produces a lovely, clear whistle when blown.

Part miniature sculpture, part curiosity, this little bird has a playful charm that makes it particularly appealing. It is as evocative as it is decorative, recalling the traditional use of bird calls and the ingenuity of everyday folk art. It would look lovely on a bookshelf, a writing desk or nestled among other intriguing objects in a cabinet of curiosities. And of course, the pleasure of discovering that this charming little bird can actually sing is part of its appeal.