Forgeries often weigh less than real Hummel figurines. The Goebel company uses a specific porcelain mix which makes the final product feel rather solid. Copies frequently use cheaper materials like chalk, plaster, or even plastic. After Hummel’s death in 1946, this right was transferred to an Artistic Board of the Sisters of Siessen, who continue to closely guard Hummel’s philosophy and artistic style to this day. Franz Goebel & Figurine Production You’ve probably seen a Hummel figurine atop somebody’s fireplace—a sweet child reading a book, playing music, or going about their daily task. These porcelain figurines embody the simple beauty of the early 20th century Bavarian countryside.

It was at the convent that sister Hummel started drawing sweet children with rosy cheeks performing daily tasks. The drawings represented her childhood in Bavaria—scenes of innocence and sincerity. In 1939 Arthur Gredington was appointed chief modeller and they began producing farm animal figurines. Arthur Gredington’s range of 190 Rearing Horsemen is one of the largest (and most popular amongst collectors) ever produced by the company. Under decorating manager Jim Hayward, there was a shift towards lifelike animal pieces, including cats, dogs, farm animals, fish and wild animals. Continued expansion enabled the acquisition of the adjoining factory in 1945 to accommodate offices, warehousing and new potting and firing facilities.

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Eclectic grouping to include (4) Royal Albert porcelain Beatrix Potter figures, each with chips and damage, Beatrix Potter book, painted watering can, assorted Clarice Cliff style table items, (4) Royal Copenhagen cups and ramekin, Royal Copenhagen plates, Rumah Manis hand painted plate and bowl Bali, pottery plates, art pottery bowl, art glass vessel with chips at rim and brass pierced stand, This lot is consigned from the Personal Collection of Vladimir Kagan, 1927-2016. It was removed from his offices in Northern NJ." First, an artwork of Maria Innocentia Hummel was selected for the new figurine. She was so prolific in her drawings, new figurines continued to be produced long after her death. From flamingo wall plaques to an outsize 'fireside' model of the popular penguin series, there are rarities in all subject areas. Some models were simply made in small numbers. Others are rare only in certain colours (the emergence of a model in 'trial' colours will always excite collectors) or in glaze variations (some figures were available in either matt or gloss finishes). Finally, real Goebel-made Hummels use a specific color palette defined by Maria Innocentia herself. Fake Hummels are usually colored similarly, but not quite the same, making it easy to spot a reproduction.

When the Nazi regime came into power, all religious schools, including the Sisters of Siessen, were closed down. M.I. Ironically the more commercially successful the model the less valuable it will probably be (as a general rule, chestnut brown horse models are common and therefore not as expensive as others) but even among easy-to-find figures collectors will make distinctions.Hopefully, this article has been a good introduction to the world of M.I. Hummel and her darling figurines. Her legacy and vision of the pastoral German countryside will live on through the Hummel figurines. Each Goebel-produced figurine is stamped with the company logo. Different logos were used in different periods, which makes it easy to identify how old your Hummel is. Once you’re sure of the type, authenticity, and you have a ballpark of it’s worth, it’s time to make some cash. Here are the most popular ways you can sell your Hummel figurines: Auction Houses Produced for the 25th anniversary of the Hummel figurine, “Ring Around the Rosie” depicts four little girls holding hands and playing in a circle.