This past week, a new flock of Wally Birds flew in from Bur Oak Pottery in Wisconsin. Wally Birds were originally created by the Martin Brothers Pottery in England in the late 19th/early 20th century. They are named after creator Wallace Martin, the eldest of this eccentric family of potters.
Taking inspiration from the originals, each one of our exceptional bird jars is sculpted by hand using stoneware clay which is baked in a wood-fired kiln. Artist/creator Ed Klein then perches each bird on a painted, hand turned wooden base just like the originals. The heads lift off so you can stash your secret trinkets inside. Each bird is a one of a kind creation.
Our current flock includes:
H.R.H. the Majestic Bird – Standing a full 26″ from tabletop to the crown of his feathered dome, this is by far the largest Wally Bird every created by Bur Oak Pottery.
Double Trouble – wooden base 6.5″ x 12″, 13″ tall – This devilish duo is plotting their next raid on the bird feeder. Double birds are very uncommon and difficult to create. The head of each bird is removable and swivels to reflect the change in the conversation.
Shrewd Bird – 17.5″ tall – This crafty fellow is larger than most of the other birds around him (see the group photo above) and is definitely considering something shady.
Shy Bird – 12″ tall – This little fellow has reluctantly left the nest and is looking for a quiet, retiring perch to call his own.
Opera & Laughing Birds – each is 13″ tall – The Opera Bird is in full song, content to let its aria wake the neighbors. The Laughing Bird is enjoying life to the fullest, finding amusement everywhere he goes. With his mop of unruly blue feathers atop his head, this is artist Ed Klein’s favorite bird from this grouping.
Worried Bird – 13″ tall – Unsure where his next worm or crust of bread is coming from, this dyspeptic fellow has an intense expression with dark rimmed pop eyes.
Frowning Bird – 13″ tall – Surly, with an attitude that says, “Don’t even try it”, this little fellow means business.
Fat Friar (or Fryer) – 13″ tall – This jovial, well fed monk has a double chin and a traditional tonsure haircut with a bald spot on the back of his head. Invite this bird for dinner, or to be the main course!
Wiley Bird – 13″ tall – An evil grin, a sharp pointed beak, and crafty look says this bird has more than birdseed on his mind.
The Twins, Quincy & Martin – 10.5″ tall – Named after our 4th and 6th presidents (whom they resemble strongly), this pair of baby birds are the early birds. Quincy, on the left, was earlier and got the worm…which explains why he is grinning. Martin wasn’t early enough, missed breakfast, and is frowning.
Contact us at 651-699-4838 or centurystudios@visi.com for pricing and availability.
