Bidspirit auction | A PAIR OF SILVER AND

A PAIR OF SILVER AND COCONUT SHELL BIRD FIGURES, PROBABLY CONTINENTAL, LATE 19TH – EARLY 20TH CENTURY - Each whimsical bird is fashioned from a polished coconut shell forming the body, mounted with finely worked silver necks, heads, legs, feet, and tail feathers. The heads are detailed with chased plumage, prominent beaks, and inset glass eyes; the legs and talons are naturalistically modeled and attached to circular bases. One bird is posed with a curved beak and flamboyant tail, the other with a slender downcurved beak and smaller tail element. Undersides show felt covering to the bases. Coconut and silver-mounted objects of this type were often produced in European workshops for the export and curiosity market, combining exotic natural materials with finely worked silver. They were particularly popular in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands from the 18th century onward, with continued production into the early 20th century. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: H: 12 in., (30.5 cm.) Condition: Overall good with minor tarnish and surface wear consistent with age. One tail element slightly loose, felt to bases worn.