Description

Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds by P. Buckley Moss

Content & Subject
Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds Ornament by P. Buckley Moss is a numbered, limited edition porcelain ornament inspired by one of the most expressive verses of the classic Christmas carol. As part of both the Moss Ornament Collection and the Moss Twelve Days of Christmas Collection, this ornament showcases Moss’s imaginative interpretation of the “calling birds,” bringing them to life through swirling color, graceful movement, and folk-art charm.

At the center of Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds Ornament, four stylized birds emerge from a soft, textured background that resembles a cloud or burst of sound. Each bird—one in rich rose, one in soft gold, one in teal blue, and one in a warm honey hue—sweeps gracefully outward with elongated forms that echo Moss’s signature artistic style. Their flowing feathers ripple like ribbons in the breeze, and their long beaks emphasize their “calling,” suggesting song, melody, and communication.

The background blends shimmering shades of silver, lavender, and soft rose tones, creating an ethereal, dreamlike setting that feels both musical and celestial. Surrounding the composition is a textured border in deep evergreen and frosty blue, dotted with subtle speckles that resemble falling snow. Handwritten in radiant gold script along the border is the beloved lyric:
“On the fourth day of Christmas my true love sent to me…”
—followed by the words “Four Calling Birds”, completing the verse in lyrical, celebratory harmony.

This ornament is a vibrant and imaginative tribute to the famous line from the Twelve Days of Christmas, celebrating sound, movement, and holiday wonder.

Style & Technique
Created in Moss’s distinctive folk-art style, Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds Ornament blends sweeping curves, elongated shapes, and delicate detailing to create a lively sense of movement. The porcelain surface captures the shimmering colors and intricate textures beautifully, giving each bird depth and personality.

As a numbered limited edition, the ornament highlights Moss’s fine linework, from the birds’ flowing feathers to the soft gradations in the background. The circular composition reinforces the sense of unity and spiraling motion, drawing the viewer’s eye around the design much like a musical refrain.

The palette—forest green, soft gold, teal, rose, honey, lavender, and shimmering silver—creates a rich, festive visual experience that perfectly suits this holiday theme.

Mood & Inspiration
The mood of Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds Ornament is musical, whimsical, and wonderfully expressive. Moss captures the essence of “calling”—song, communication, and joyful noise—through the flowing lines and organic shapes of the birds. Each figure feels alive, as if in the midst of singing or calling out across the winter sky.

The ornament celebrates creativity, imagination, and the lively spirit of holiday music, transforming a traditional lyric into an enchanting work of art.

Placement & Gift Ideas
Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds Ornament is perfect for displaying on a Christmas tree with the included cord or on a tiny easel as part of a Twelve Days ornament collection display. Its vibrant colors and swirling movement make it a standout centerpiece for musical, whimsical, or artistic holiday décor themes.

Twelve Days of Christmas Four Calling Birds ornament is an ideal gift for Moss collectors, bird lovers, music enthusiasts, carolers, and anyone who enjoys imaginative and expressive holiday artwork. It is perfect for Christmas gifting, collector series sets, holiday celebrations, and special keepsake exchanges.

Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. (see FAQs)

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✨ Fun Fact:
Historically, “calling birds” may have originally been “colly birds”—meaning blackbirds. Over time, the lyric evolved, inspiring artists like Moss to reinterpret the phrase with lively, colorful creativity.

🎁 Collector’s Insight:
As part of the Moss Twelve Days of Christmas Collection, this ornament is beloved for its artistic originality and expressive motion. Collectors often appreciate how Moss transforms each verse into a unique visual storytelling experience, making the Twelve Days series a treasured holiday tradition.

1997

Size: 3-5/16 inches diameter.

Any number of ornaments ship for the flat rate of $12.60

🎁 Available through Canada Goose Gallery in Waynesville, Ohio — your trusted source for the art of P. Buckley Moss.