Unusual 19th Century Staffordshire Glazed Pottery Nesting Bird Figural Whistle

Description: A glazed Staffordshire pottery figural whistle in the form of a nesting bird. The bird is sitting or laying on a round base that looks like a tree trunk and represents what we believe a nest. The brown base has green coloring on top which is apparent around the bird's body. The bird is white in color with outlined eyes, beak, wings and tail. It has a hole in the center of its back. The trunk/nest has an extension which is the mouth piece of the whistle. The extension has two holes, a small one on the edge and a larger triangular one on top. When you blow in the small hole at the end and modulate the hole on the back of the bird, the whistle works. A great old piece to add to your collection. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.

Date: Unknown, but we believe the piece was made in mid to late 1800s.

Origin: Staffordshire England.

Size: The base measures ~1 3/4" by ~1 5/8", and the piece is ~3" long and ~2 1/2" high.The whistle weighs about two and half ounces.

Maker: Unknown.

Marks: No markings.

Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: This is an antique very unusual whistle. Remember this was a child's toy 150 years ago, it is a wonder that it is still in one piece. This is why these are very rare. A great whistle which is beautiful, solid and in great shape after being around for over 150 years. It would make a great addition to your collection.

Condition: Whistle is in very good condition given its age and its utilitarian function. It has no hairlines, breaks, chips, or repairs. The piece has what we believe is a firing crack that has been glazed over right under the bird's tail on the whistle's mouth piece (see fifth photo). This we believe is original to the making and the piece is solid and uncompromised. A great old figural whistle to add to your collection. Please see photos for additional condition information.