Home decor
The interior design of the house is very important for your well-being: a pleasant environment makes you feel good. Have you ever considered the benefits of a decorative Chinese bird cage? Not only does it bring an oriental look with its nice curves and elegance, but these bird cages also balance the feng shui of modern design.
Bird markets
Most Chinese cities have a bird market where every morning an old man can be seen taking out his birds to “air”. They cover the cage with a cloth until they reach the market or park. Perhaps the birds enjoy talking together? In Hong Kong there is a large market in Mong Konk, which sells live cages and crickets in plastic bags, as well as birds and accessories.
History of bird cages
Chinese everywhere enjoy birdsong; it is said to lift the spirits. However, birds as pets can be traced back to other cultures as well. Pigeons and parrots were caged for their beauty and mystery in ancient Egypt, where they can still be seen depicted in hieroglyphs. The Romans raised birds and it was considered that the duty of a slave was to care for domesticated beasts. And in India, the Mynah has been considered a sacred bird for more than 2000 years.
The rich treasured the elegance of caged birds as a symbol of style and sophistication. A few hundred years ago, Western traders in the Far East brought home exotic birds as pets along with their spices. Bamboo and wood cages were hung near open windows in many kitchens in the American colonies. In Victorian times, decorative cages became an important ornament within the hall.
Today’s Chinese bird cages were likely made in the same way thousands of years ago: weaving bamboo, reed, twigs of wood, rope mesh, or reeds. Much fancier than western-style wire mesh cages, which many bird owners find to be uncomfortable for their pets – cold and unnatural.
Bird cage design
Chinese bird cages are often designed in polygonal shapes with three or four sides, as well as round ones. This makes them look interesting, as well as being further enhanced by elaborate decoration such as pagoda roofs or ornamental carvings.
A cage should be large enough to accommodate the movement and daily activities of its inhabitant. However, for practical reasons, smaller cages are generally preferred. It is important to choose a cage where the bottom can be removed for cleaning and has seeds and water attached to it. For those who have neither the time nor the patience to care for a pet, an oriental bird cage is a stylish decorative addition to every home.