78 OUR DOMESTIC FO'UXS. 



existing breed." Of this japanned breed, we 

 have seen no specimens, nor are we sure as to 

 the colour assumed. 



In all countries, the peacock is valued for its 

 beauty. " Peacocks," says a writer, " are great 

 favourites in Persia, and are more common 

 than in this country as an oi-namcnt in grounds 

 and gardens. The king of Persia has a throne 

 which is called the throne of the peacock, on 

 account of two artificial birds, intended to 

 represent peacocks, which are placed on square 

 pillars on each side of the seat. These birds 

 are studded with precious stones, and each of 

 them holds a large ruby in his beak." In 

 China, beautiful fire-screens, and other oi*na- 

 mental articles are made of peacock's feathers, 

 tastefully arranged, and mounted on ivory 

 handles. 



Besides the common peacock, which is too 

 well known to need a detailed description, 

 there is a second species seldom brought alive to 

 England, called the Javanese, or Japan peacock. 

 (Pavo Japonicus — Aldr. ; Pavo muticus — 

 Linn. ; Pavo Javanicus — Horsf.) This species 

 is a native of Japan, the Birmau Emijlx-e, Java, 

 and Sumatra. Living specimens have existed 

 in the gardens of the Zoological Society, and 



