Not a piece of furniture; Hummel Figurine (specifically 'Umbrella Girl', HUM 152)
Decorative Accessory / Collectible Figurine · Mid-20th Century Traditional German / Hummel (based on Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel's sketches) · Goebel (W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik), based on the artwork of Berta Hummel (Sister Maria Innocentia).
Type
Decorative Accessory / Collectible Figurine
Style Period
Mid-20th Century Traditional German / Hummel (based on Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel's sketches)
Material
Porcelain (Earthenware / Ceramic)
Age Estimate
Likely mid-to-late 20th century (circa 1960-1990) based on the vibrancy and style, though specific trademark stamps on the bottom would be needed for exact dating.
Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 to 8 inches in height depending on the specific model size (typically HUM 152/0 or 152/I).
Origin
Germany (Rödental, Bavaria)
Designer/Maker
Goebel (W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik), based on the artwork of Berta Hummel (Sister Maria Innocentia).
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 USD depending on size (height) and the specific trademark (TMK) era stamped on the bottom. Valued as a collectible item rather than furniture.
Description
This is the iconic 'Umbrella Girl' figurine, a classic staple of Goebel Hummel collecting. It features a young girl in a stylized Bavarian dress tucked protectively under a large, overarching umbrella. The piece captures the whimsical, innocent childhood aesthetic that made Hummel figurines a global phenomenon following WWII.
Key Features
Large oversized umbrella, braided pigtails, seated posture with legs extended, and the characteristic Goebel matte hand-painted finish.
Color & Finish
Matte, hand-painted glaze in earthy tones: muted blue dress, reddish-brown umbrella, and pale flesh tones with soft blushing.
Construction Method
Slip-cast ceramic from a multi-part mold, followed by hand-finishing and assembly of components like the umbrella handle.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Expert ceramic modeling with seamless attachment of the umbrella to the figure's base and hands; high-quality hand-painted details.
Wood Grain & Species
Not applicable (Ceramic)
Surface Treatment
Hand-painted underglaze using the characteristic Hummel palette of muted, rustic colors with a soft, non-reflective matte finish.
Upholstery Details
None (Solid Ceramic)
Hardware & Fittings
None
Origin & Provenance
Germany (Rödental, Bavaria)
Condition Notes
Appears to be in Good to Very Good condition; no visible 'crazing' (fine cracks in glaze) or chips at the edges of the umbrella, which are the most common points of damage.
Interesting Facts
Hummel figurines were incredibly popular gifts among American GIs stationed in Germany after World War II, leading to their status as one of the most collected porcelain brands in U.S. history.
Cultural Significance
Represents a post-war nostalgia for German folk art and innocence; the 'Umbrella Girl' and her counterpart 'Umbrella Boy' are among the most recognizable ceramic designs of the 20th century.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with 'M.J. Hummel' look-alikes produced by other companies like Japan's 'Arnart' or various 'Lefton' designs. Authentic pieces must have the Goebel bee or V-markings on the base.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, dry cloth or a very soft brush to remove dust. Avoid immersion in water if crazing is present. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent pigment fading over decades.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 USD depending on size (height) and the specific trademark (TMK) era stamped on the bottom. Valued as a collectible item rather than furniture.
Sustainability Notes
A durable, long-lasting heirloom intended for generational display rather than disposal; however, traditional ceramic firing is energy-intensive.