birds in tree or cactus

[Roger matthews]

I recently bought at an antiques fair a glass sculpture of birds sitting in tree.
The model is about 110cms high and about 35cms across the base.
It carries the label of Andromeda, Fornace Murano Italy.
It is signed by A Zapella (?).
I've contacted the manufacturer, Andromeda of Murano, but they are unable to help as they only make lights now.
I wonder if anyone knows what the third bird is/was?
Once I know I will try and get one made so if you know of a glass maker that accepts this type of commission I would also appreciate that.
I'm not really concerned about the value of the piece as I want to restore it as near as original as possible so that I can enjoy it.
I hope I have attached a picture of the sculpture!!!
Any help, no matter how tiny, would be greatly appreciated.
Best wishes
Roger

[publius71]

Roger,

It is hard to tell by the picture but it seems to be some sort of parrot. I birdwatch occassionally, but that type of bird is not in the same latitude as me? Try a birding site or a take a bird identification book out from the library, they should have photos of the bird that you can match up.

Im not sure if im reading your post correctly, but I think that you want to duplicate the larger bird as it is damaged? Depending on the complexity, you may be able to have it done stateside by a local artist. Glass blowing has exploded in the US over the last 30 years, and in most cases, the quality is terrific.

Publius

[Roger matthews]

Thanks Publius
In my excitement (!) I may not have made a clear description. The existing two birds are a parrot and a bee eater. The naked branch carried the third bird the identity of which is unknown to me. The birds are very heavy, being made of solid glass so I guess they are drawn rather than blown. The entire outfit weighs about 50 pounds (23kg).
I will try and load some more pictures later today.
I'm located in the UK by the way.
Thanks again - hoping maybe someone can identify it - I was a little disappointed with the response of the factory - you'd have thought they'd have some record or recollection, wouldn't you?
Regards
Roger

[fossilfly]

Roger,


To restore/duplicate a piece I would have suggested that you do exactly what you have done, speak directly with the manufacturer as they often have old catalogs or similar documentation. Since this has not been fruitful, I would suggest reviewing auction catalogs for a similar item. Knowing the mfr makes it easier, but finding an identical piece still may be difficult. However if I were to wager, the missing bird would be a parrot, possibly a different color. I dont think it would have been another completely different bird species (other than a parrot or bee eater).


C.

[Roger matthews]

C.
Many thanks for your comment.
I might have another (third) go with the manufacturer. I have an Italian speaking friend who may be able to chat them up!
Regards
Roger

[publius71]

For what its worth, when visiting Venice, I have always found that when someone speaks the language (better than my butchered italian) things seem to work out a little better. I would be interested in hearing more about your results. Good Luck!

[Roger matthews]

:(
Thanks everyone but the trail went cold! My Italian friend who is Venetian and speaks Venetian contacted the factory. Alas the artist is dead. The factory have no records going back to the fifties or sixties. I've decided to commission a small bird coloured grey/pink/cream in sympathy with the existing birds and flowers. Certainly a unique item - not loved by everyone who sees it! :)
Roger

[fossilfly]

Roger,

Thanks for the update, even though it didn't work as well as hoped. I am always interested in finding out more about the pieces that are on the forum, especially ones that leave open questions!

Charlie

[glassman]

I would also like to see the bird when you have it commissioned, are you going to use someone local to you or have it done in Murano?

[Roger matthews]

Hi Glassman
I will gladly post a picture of the bird once it's done.
Elzabeth Aldridge of F W Aldridge Ltd, Essex, UK, says she'd love to have a go at it - she's waiting for pictures and ideas from me. F W Aldridge is a long established firm of glass restorers so I am very confident we will get there!
Regards
Roger