Finial in the Form of a Parrot
The strong sculptural traditions of pre-Islamic India continued to some extent during the later period, when figural elements such as this parrot were used as finials and other types of embellishment. The informal choice of subject and the simplicity of style suggest that this piece probably belonged in a provincial, rather than imperial, court setting. Ubiquitous in Indian life and often depicted in Mughal and Deccan paintings, parrots were also known in literature of the Mughal period, such as in the Tutinama (Tales of a Parrot).
Artwork Details
- Title: Finial in the Form of a Parrot
- Date: 17th–18th century
- Geography: Attributed to Northern India
- Medium: Brass
- Dimensions: H. 5 3/4 in. (14.6 cm)
L. 11 in. (27.9 cm) - Classification: Metal
- Credit Line: Gift of Robert W. and Lockwood De Forest, 1919
- Object Number: 19.135.3
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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late 17th century
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