Vintage Brass Pheasant Figurine / Table Ornament
Decorative Object / Animal Figurine · Typically manufactured by mid-20th century export foundries in Italy, Hong Kong, or South Korea; often unlabeled but occasionally associated with brands like Sarreid or Andrea by Sadek.
Pattern: Traditional Naturalistic Pheasant; common decorative motif in library or study decor.
Type
Decorative Object / Animal Figurine
Maker
Typically manufactured by mid-20th century export foundries in Italy, Hong Kong, or South Korea; often unlabeled but occasionally associated with brands like Sarreid or Andrea by Sadek.
Material
Cast Brass. Note: This item is not silver; the gold/yellow hue indicates a copper-zinc alloy (brass) rather than sterling or silver plate.
Dimensions
Estimated 8 to 12 inches in length. Weight approximately 300 to 600 grams depending on whether the casting is hollow or solid.
Description
A classic brass decorative pheasant often sold in pairs (cock and hen). The bird is depicted in a grounded or slightly stooped posture, featuring stylized feathers and a long, rigid tail. The brass has a warm, golden patina with some minor darkening in the recessed feather details.
Key Features
Naturalistic bird form, heavy brass construction, cross-hatched tail pattern, and lack of silver hallmarks.
Material & Composition
Cast Brass. Note: This item is not silver; the gold/yellow hue indicates a copper-zinc alloy (brass) rather than sterling or silver plate.
Finish & Decoration
Polished and lacquered finish with cast textural details representing feathers and plumage. Features a cross-hatch pattern on the tail and overlapping scale-like indentations for the body feathers.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually unmarked or bears a simple 'MADE IN [COUNTRY]' sticker or incised mark on the underside of the tail or feet. No precious metal hallmarks (such as 925 or lion passant) are present.
Construction Details
Sand-cast or lost-wax cast brass. Usually cast in multiple parts (body, tail, legs) and joined via brazing or internal screws.
Functional Features
Purely decorative; designed as a table centerpiece or mantel ornament.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a statuette; the long tail is often used for repositioning but is not a functional handle.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality cast work. The feathering is uniform rather than hand-chased, indicating a production mold rather than a unique silversmithing commission.
Authentication Indicators
Color confirms it is brass; weight feels heavy for its size. The absence of a 'Silver Plate' or 'Sterling' mark confirms it is a base metal decorative item.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mass-produced globally with major manufacturing hubs in Italy (for high-end versions) or East Asia (for mass-market versions).
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to Late 20th Century (c. 1950s-1980s) Hollywood Regency or Gentleman’s Library style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the style of casting and characteristic surface wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Country Estate' or 'English Manor' aesthetic that became popular in American suburban decor during the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible surface oxidation and minor pitting consistent with brass of this age. Some areas show loss of original lacquer coating, leading to localized tarnish.
Value Estimate
$25 - $75 USD for a single bird; $100 - $150 for a matched pair in excellent condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild brass cleaner like Brasso or Wright’s Brass Polish if a bright shine is desired; otherwise, dust with a soft cloth to maintain the aged patina.
Similar Pieces
Silver-plated versions by Leonard or Godinger; high-end solid silver pheasants from Hanau, Germany (which would have hallmarks).
Interesting Facts
Brass birds were extremely popular in mid-century interior design to add a sense of movement and 'metallic warmth' to wood-heavy dens and offices.