The first figurines of birds and animals from hard porcelain appeared at the beginning of the 18th century, immediately after the introduction of the first European porcelain factory in the German city of Meissen. Initially, porcelain cats, dogs or fishes were not so much sculptures as they were decorative (and sometimes functional) components of crockery. Decanters shaped like roosters, owls or fish can still be seen on sale today. Additionally, nature scenes, along with mythological and everyday scenes, were used in the design of utensils and porcelain light fixtures.
Porcelain sculptures started to really flourish thanks to the work of Johann Candler in the 1730s. Before beginning work on porcelain figurines of birds and animals, the sculptor would carefully study live animals in zoos and stuffed animals in museums. Only after would he start working on the form. Many master sculptors today still use those animal sculptures as references.
Realistic bird figurines can liven up the interior of any apartment, home, or office. They combine very harmoniously with ornamental plants, mimicking the atmosphere of a tropical forest or a blooming garden. Porcelain birds are often used for interiors with a natural style. Psychologists even claim that such figurines calm people and create a creative setting. Perhaps this is connected to our ancient instincts—our ancestors used to determine the approach of predators on the behavior of small animals. If a predator was near, small animals would flee. Therefore, a figurine bird, conveying the same sense of calm of a real bird quietly sitting on a branch, signals to our subconscious minds that there is no danger.
Porcelain animal figurines have always attracted collectors because of their variety. Also, porcelain puppies or bird figurines do not require special care, do not lose their loveliness over time, and also revitalize home interiors. If you are aware that someone you know is interested in porcelain sculpture, you can get them a small porcelain bird as a gift.
In addition, bird figurines can carry some significance. We know that many species of birds in our culture have a certain symbolic meanings. There’s probably no need to even explain what the eagle, owl, or a lark symbolize. There are symbols, however, whose meaning is not universally known. For example, the penguin is actually a symbol of the Linux computers and a penguin souvenir would surely amuse a programmer or system administrator working with the system. The main thing to look for, when choosing a gift, is creativity and personality.
If you wish to buy porcelain bird figurines or any other Pavone products wholesale, you can call our office in Moscow to discuss all and any terms and conditions. We are sure that you will find them very agreeable, especially if you plan to keep working with us in the future.