Expert: Jennifer - 11/21/2009

Question
QUESTION: I bought a pair of these 'bird pictures' about 50 years in Hong Kong because I liked them but I don't know anthing about them, not even what they're called. I'd appreciate anything you can tell me from looking at this image.

ANSWER: Dear Wylie,

I apologize for my delay in replying to your email. I tried to look up the exact name of the bird but the birds in your picture don't seem to be common in Hong Kong.

There's no title available on this painting. However, you would notice that there's a red stamp on the right. Chinese painters sign off their works by using a special hand crafted seal, and hence this painter is no different.

The picture depicted is a common Chinese theme on parental love. The parent would always find food for the young, no matter how difficult it is. He/she or would diligently bring food back for his/her children until they are full. It is a painting to show that parents would never neglect their duties to bring up their children and hence the latter should never forget to be filial and grateful to their parents.

Generally speaking, Chinese painting like to depict sparrows. There's even a Chinese proverb regarding sparrows. So it might be the birds in the picture are sparrows after all.

I hope that helps.

Thanks.

Regards,
Jen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do you know if there is a market for this sort of work?

Answer
Dear Wylie,

I think there is a market for this kind of work. Generally speaking, Chinese like to have some Chinese paintings and/or calligraphy in their home. The painting usually extols the qualities of the house owner or is of an auspicious sign (eg horses or carps). As for the painting that you own, there are 2 things to consider: 1. It doesn't carry any calligraphy. 2. It is not a favourite painting among businessman. What these mean is that you might have to look for a more general market to sell this painting in future.

Hope it helps.

Regards,
Jen