This rare, unusual, and dare we say bizarre Victorian artifact is most definitely one-of-a-kind, the world over.
The 19th century hummingbird fire screen is adorned with dozens of real, taxidermy hummingbirds, exquisitely restored, and created by Henry Ward, famed for his taxidermy art.
Meant for when fires are not in use, the screen is wildly unique and has a macabre beauty, something we can clearly say we’ve never seen before.
Modern fireplace design has also taken dramatic leaps forward, and a see through fireplace is now a popular choice for homeowners looking to create a striking focal point between two rooms.
The screen is also hugely polarizing, and we’ve heard from readers how horrifying or disturbing it is. Approaching 200 years old, this type of artifact is sure to invoke a reaction.
It’s currently on sale for $227,000, this intricate screen was made between 1840 and 1860, and is entirely one of a kind.
From 1st Dibs, available at $277,000:
On two scrolling foliate feet with casters, above which a rectangular two-side glazed frame, with on top a two-sided shield with initials crowned by a royal coronet on a pillow, the vividly colored hummingbirds, amongst which Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte anna), Lucifer hummingbird (Calothorax lucifer), Ruby-throated hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris), Bumble-bee hummingbirds (Atthis heloisa), Sword-billed hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera), Little hermits (Phaethornis longuemareus), Woodnymphs (Thalurania), the Marvelous spatuletail (Loddigesia mirabilis) and many others, perched, highly naturalistic, on branches with nests sprouting from the foliate bottom.
This fire screen, that was placed in front of the fireplace when the fire was out, can be regarded as one of the most important pieces of Victorian taxidermy, and quite probably one of the pinnacles of Henry Ward’s oeuvre, still in private hands today. What makes it even more special is the iridescence of feathers of the ‘gems of the jungle’ still present, which means this screen has been preserved well, for colors of feathers often fade in daylight.
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6 Comments
Cool and creepy at the same time.
Personally, I prefer hummingbirds when they’re alive.
Sickening. Shame on you.
Fucking Horrific!!!
Beautiful fire screen love it conversation piece
Horrific