Large pair of Samson porcelain bird models of cockatoos

These remarkable, eye-catching and lively pieces, bursting with character, are a pair of porcelain bird models, specifically cockatoos, that were made in the late nineteenth century by the porcelain manufacturers Samson et Cie.

Mounted on bright white bases, the birds are similarly modelled, their bodies marked by splashes of lively colour much like the bases upon which they perch. Bright green holly bursts lead to the birds' claws and feet, before the wings, tail feathers, and heads of each cockatoo burst forth with profuse and complementary colour schemes.

They feature the Samson porcelain mark to the reverse, and stand 35 and 38cm tall respectively, facing inwards (or outwards) to create a near-symmetrical pair.