Miniature Lampwork Glass Hen Figurine

A tiny hand-formed glass hen, small enough to balance between two fingers. Her plump body is milky white, softly shaded with pinkish-mauve wings and a tall plum-black tail. She has a bright red comb and wattles, a little yellow beak and dotted eyes. The glass has a smooth, glossy finish that catches the light. She's a charming curio-cabinet piece, a lovely addition to a miniature farm or dollhouse, or a sweet little gift for a chicken lover. Maker unmarked. She's in good condition.

Tiny glass animals like this are made by lampworking, where rods of coloured glass are softened in a torch flame and shaped by hand with simple tools. Venetian craftsmen were using the technique to make miniature animals, flowers and figures centuries ago and spread the skill across Europe in the 16th century. Towns such as Nevers in France became famous for their delicate glass figurines.