The birdcage was intended to tame the bird inside it, which would look beautiful and sing beautifully, too. The bird was behind bars, but also centre stage. Some birdcages had climbing plants painted onto them to add a touch of nature to the drawing room. They were furnished with feeding bowls, perches, little doors and a double floor to facilitate care and hygiene. Out of consideration for their social needs, cage birds these days have to be kept at least in pairs and in large cages.