Meissen Porcelain Manufactory (established Meissen, Germany, 1710)
Woodpecker Figurine, about 1733-1740
Painted and glazed hard-paste porcelain, 27.5 cm (10 13/16 in.)
This green, ceramic woodpecker is perched on an upright log. It has a long, pointed chisel-shaped beak that is outstretched. Atop its head is red plumage. It’s small round eyes are jet black surrounded by black markings. The belly is a pale white with black markings that descend to its tail. It’s feathers on its neck and back are bright green with a black and a white speckled border. The feet of the woodpecker have four talons on each foot that are clutching the white and brown log; three in front and one in back.
Little Salon
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.