Ended Parrot by SerMel S. Bustamante M. Preciado

Condition: Excellent Vintage Condition

In 1963, Sergio Bustamante and Melquiades Preciado founded a studio/workshop in Tonalá, Jalsico, Mexico and called it SerMel, a combination of the first three letters of each founder’s name. The workshop specialized in objects of art in different mediums; wood, tin, and papier-mâché. They had a bright, colorful painting style that incorporated the region’s traditional folk technique seen most often in the ceramics of the area. SerMel produced two distinct papier-mâché figures that quickly became icons of Mexican folk art. The first was the triangle-skirt doll. The second was the hanging papier-mâché bird, like the one found here.

This parrot is in great condition. The vibrancy and boldness of its colors and lines are undiminished by time. Its body is a mix of calm tropical blues and greens offset by the bright orange of its eyes and dots of the same color on the tips of its feathers. A few small areas denote this parrot’s long life- a couple of paint spots on its left side, and a very small nick on the back at the tip of the tail, which is completely invisible when the parrot is mounted on the wall. The back is also where the signature is located. It reads “SerMel Tonala Jal Mexico.”
This unique, handcrafted bird brings color and the flavor of adventure to any room!

Available for free local pickup in our store, located in the historic town of Tehachapi, CA., a 2 - 3 hour drive from the greater LA area and the central coast. Tehachapi is known for its mountain climate, interesting antique stores, local history museums and fine wineries.

Pickup DetailsSeller will be in contact with you within seven days.