One piece of a Martin Brothers rare pottery bird collection brings more than $81K

WHAT: When a rare collection of Martin Brothers pottery birds sold at Heritage Auctions in Dallas recently, collectors battled for pieces. Results ranged from $6,000 for a small bird to $81,250 for the circa-1894 grotesque bird jar with removable cover (shown here); pre-sale estimate was $25,000 to $35,000.

Started in 1873, Martin Brothers was considered the first British studio pottery. The birds were produced as “pretty” Victorian ceramics waned and idiosyncratic handmade studio pieces appeared.

MORE: Each glazed bird was individually made; some reflected social satire, others are caricature. In no way conventional, Martin Brothers birds sell high when they come to market.

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SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: Martin Brothers also made traditional studio pottery, but it is the birds that sell highest. Instantly recognizable, with human-like expressions, they appeal to a specific taste.

HOT TIP: Note the leering look and hooded eye, the ungainly feet and the plus-size beak on the photographed bird. There’s nothing avian about this one. And that’s part of the appeal.

BOTTOM LINE: Martin Brothers birds are never colorful. Most are a clear or blue glaze over grey.