This evocative square textile, originating from England during the second half of the 19th century (1850–1900), is a fine example of late Victorian pictorial needlework. Measuring 13 inches by 13 inches (33 cm x 33 cm), the piece features a central composition of a brightly colored parrot perched on a rustic branch, surrounded by lush floral blooms in shades of crimson and cream.
The artwork is executed in wool petitpoint on a fine black silk background, which provides a dramatic, high-contrast field for the imagery. The needlework is exceptionally dense, with an estimated count of 20 threads per inch (totaling approximately 400 threads per square inch). Subtle silk highlights are used to accentuate the parrot's eye, adding a lifelike spark to the avian subject. Structurally, the piece is backed onto a thin solid material and was further mounted on foamcore during the 20th century for framing. While it retains its intricate charm, there are three or four missing threads and some damage along the tattered edges of the silk background.