Unusual Framed Victorian Metal Silhouette of Parrots

Antiques : By Period, Style : Art Nouveau

 

If it's the unusual and Avian you seek with a bit of history besides, then this unique silhouette from Germany is certain to catch your eye. Surrounded by a period wood frame with a decorative inner edge, the profiled Parrots 'n plants are crafted of shiny metal (perhaps chrome, not sure) backed in light blue material, and covered with glass. The oval shaped piece is larger than you'd expect, measuring 15.75" x 11.75" and can either hang on the wall via a supplied hook (taped to the back) or double as a tray. It shows its age (100+ years) via a few nicks in the wood frame, light staining in the material, and tarnishing of the metal in places (see pics). I also see what appears to be lint under the glass, which a good cleaning can correct. The back is of wood, which has holes where nails once were but are no longer. The screws that are present appear to be newer than the piece itself (how new I do not know). A beautiful example of unmarked Art Nouveau (or Jugendstil as the Germans say) craft that is quite possibly one-of-a-kind and certainly eye-catching.

Item ID: ab6093