Kleine papegaai, a terracotta sculpture modelled by Johan Altorf, possibly executed by Willem Brouwer circa 1915

modelled as a parrot (entitled 'small parrot' in the literature) or a bird of prey with backwards-tilted head and partly outstretched wings

H. P. Bremmer, The Hague, no. 752

Christie's Amsterdam 1999, sale 2419 lot 26

Cf. Terwen 1998, with illustration of the identical version in the Drents Museum, Assen (inv. no. E 1994-105)

In good condition. some needlepoint imperfections.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Sculptor Johan Coenraad Altorf (1876 - 1955) worked in bronze, wood, ivory and clay. Initially trained as a cabinet maker, he later took lessons at the Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague after which he executed sculptural woodwork for architect and designer Thorn Prikker. As an independent sculptor, Altorf would become renowned for his heavily stylised animal figures, inspired by the work of Mendes da Costa. In 1912, H. P. Bremmer initiated a co-operation between Altorf and potter Chris Lanooij to execute animal figures in earthenware. The figure here offered is believed to have been executed by potter Willem Brouwer