This pair of blue and white Chinese porcelain parrots was made during the Qing dynasty circa 1870. Above all, the charm of this pair comes from the relationship between the two birds Modeled standing on blue rockwork with their wings folded back, the parrots turn toward one another with open beaks, giving the delightful impression that they are engaged in conversation. Their upright, formal postures make them look like two businessmen deep in conversation, which makes the scene especially amusing. Their plump, softly rounded bodies, alert blue-ringed eyes, and large curved beaks give their faces distinct character. Slight differences between the two handmade figures give each parrot its own personality. The pale celadon-white glaze of their bodies contrasts beautifully with the richly painted cobalt blue rockwork. Their warm cream colored beaks and feet are left in unglazed biscuit porcelain, adding a subtle contrast between the matte and glazed surfaces. Dimensions: Each 8.25 inches tall × 2.5 inches wide × 3.25 inches deep Condition: Excellent Origin: China Date: Qing dynasty, circa 1870 Price: $2,600