Sancai Parrot Incense Burner

A symbol of freedom and long life, parrots have held a place of honor in Chinese culture for centuries. In fact, this parrot-shaped incense holder once played an important role in ancestor worship. Dated to the early 20th century, the ceramic parrot is glazed in the style of ancient sancai ware, or three color ware, named for the characteristic green, amber, and creme-colored glazes that flow and mix together across the sculptural form.