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Jar in the form of a bird

1888
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 516
After Charles Darwin’s 1859 book On the Origin of Species introduced scientific theories of evolution to the popular imagination, the idea that humans and animals shared common ancestry provoked fascination and horror. Modeled by Robert Wallace Martin, this winged creature appears uncannily human. Its detachable head can be manipulated to change the bird’s look from charming to menacing.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Jar in the form of a bird
  • Maker: R. W. Martin and Brothers (British, 1873–1915)
  • Date: 1888
  • Culture: British, Southall, London
  • Medium: Glazed stoneware with wood mount
  • Dimensions: Overall (confirmed, on socle): 12 3/16 × 6 7/16 × 6 7/16 in., 6 lb. [body (a) 4 lb., head (b) 2 lb.] (31 × 16.4 × 16.4 cm, 2.7 kg)
  • Classification: Ceramics-Pottery
  • Credit Line: Robert A. Ellison Jr. Collection, Gift of Robert A. Ellison Jr., 2013
  • Object Number: 2013.239.5a, b
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Audio

Cover Image for 420. The Bust of Mary Shelley and the Martin Brothers Bird Jar

420. The Bust of Mary Shelley and the Martin Brothers Bird Jar

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Tall vase with four roundels, R. W. Martin and Brothers British, Stoneware, British, Southall, London
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Grand Pianoforte, Érard , made in London French, Satinwood veneer, oak, spruce, iron, steel, ebony, ivory, gilding, mother-of-pearl, holly, mahogany, burl walnut, tulipwood, silver wire, British
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