A very charming Chinese export teapot decorated in underglaze blue with diapered bands bordering a central design of two exotic birds perched on the branches of an expansive budding tree.  The birds a rather unusual mix resembling cockatoos, yet colorfully plumed as parrots in an attempt no doubt to create an ‘exotic’ scene’  for the Dutch market.  The underglaze blue diapered borders were most probably done in China and then the piece was shipped to the Netherlands where it decorated and fired in the overglaze design we enjoy here. The colors and scene as delightful as the day they were painted. Measuring 5 1/2″ x 7″ and in very good condition. Mid-18th century.