Why Birds Have Always Had a Place in the Home
There’s something about a little bird that makes a room feel extra charming. Whether perched on a shelf, painted on a plate, or tucked into the details of a beautiful antique, birds have been finding their way into our homes for centuries. And we can certainly see why!
A Little History
Birds have long been a favorite in the decorative arts. In 18th-century Europe, chinoiserie brought delicate birds, flowering branches, and fanciful garden scenes into fashionable interiors. Later, Victorian homes embraced nature-inspired designs, from botanical prints to porcelain figurines and decorative metalwork.
In English country houses, birds became especially popular on dinnerware, wallpaper, and artwork, bringing a little of the outdoors inside.
A Feathered Favorite
One of the things we love most about bird motifs is how easily they fit into almost any decorating style. A pair of vintage bird sconces can add a little personality to a hallway, while game bird plates look just as lovely displayed on a wall as they do on a beautifully set table.
And there’s no need to go overboard! Sometimes one charming bird tucked among your favorite collected pieces is all it takes.
[Insert Photo: Marsh House Italian Tole Bird Sconces]
Our vintage Italian tole bird sconces, dating to around 1940, are a wonderful example of decorative metalwork with a touch of whimsy.
[Insert Photo: Marsh House Vintage Game Bird Plates]
Our vintage Corning game bird plates from the 1970s offer another take on this timeless tradition. We especially love the idea of mixing them into a gallery wall or using them for a cozy autumn table.
A Little Bird Told Us…
The prettiest homes aren’t necessarily the most perfectly coordinated. They’re the ones filled with pieces that make you smile, tell a story, and feel collected over time.
So whether you’re drawn to a delicate porcelain bird, a charming vintage plate, or a whimsical wall sconce, there’s always room for a feathered friend.
Take a peek at the bird-inspired treasures currently available at Marsh House. You might just find something worth bringing home!