SPOTLIGHT ON: KARL ENS PORCELAIN BIRDS
Founding Triebner, Ens & Co in 1860, German potter Karl Ens (1802-1865) was known for his exquisite porcelain creations and celebrated for his artistic bird and animal figures, from cockatoos through to elephants. Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director and director of Fine Art at 1stDibs, explains: ‘Karl Ens masterfully captured nature, and his creations are emblematic of a very specific moment in art history, when tastes moved toward a more realistic, or naturalistic depiction of our world. Pieces truly deemed “artworks” were produced during a short period in the early 19th century, during Ens’ lifetime. All subsequent pieces are merely collectibles – charming but not highly valued.’ Due to the accuracy and artistry of his handpainted birds, Ens’ figures became coveted by scholars and intellectuals and can be found all over the world.
Karl Ens Porcelain Factory hummingbird figurine, £221;
FEATURE ALICE ROBERTON IMAGES
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