Dear Imperial Aficionados,
Since things have been a bit slow as of late, I'd like to offer this humble contribution to my own forum and even humbler apologies for not being able to tell you all something about my new Hussar Pelzmütze, but alas .... no dice!
I do offer a lovely imperial porcelain of an "Amsel," or blackbird, by one of my favorite German sculptors, Professor Theodor Kärner. Though this piece was originally sculpted and cast at the Bavarian factory in 1914, though, I believe my example to be from the 1920's due to the painter's initials. The animals that Herr Kärner produced for Nymphenburg were some of the finest "Tierbilder" (animal-pictures or renderings) that were produced worldwide at the turn-of-the-century. (no wonder Himmler scarfed him right up, eh? heh ...)
So here we have porcelain renderings that rival Allach in quality, and then before that Meissen, which goes back to Friederich der Grosse. Talk about practice makes perfect ..?
(Meissen was the first European company to perfect the production of porcelain that was equal to that of the Chinese masters.
Hope this might inspire some of you Allach collectors to check out some more of the great German porcelain sculptors of the 20th century, they were some very talented people.
Best regards to all of our collectors!
Bill Warda
Hi Bill,
Another fabulous catch for your excellent collection. I swear it looks like it's going to fly way or take a dump right before my eyes! It's so life like. Only the best, excellent quality and craftmanship. Also, we can't forget the artistic expertise of master painters that did this sort of thing. They have been for the most part forgotten, but their work lives on.
I can't state this enough, your photog skills
are excellent.
Come on Bill, send it to me for close up and personal authentication. It may take a few years for me to authenticate it, but it will be protected and safe.
Extremely nice peice. My overall favorit Allach piece is "The Raven". Have you ever seen it?
Mark
M&M,
Thanks for your kind words of encouragement. Coming from either of you gentlemen makes it all the better.
Mike - you're right on in regards to the painters, they'll be all but forgotten to us except for a set of initials or a monogram on some fine piece of porcelain. I'm figuring that when a painter was allowed to identify his work in this manner, he/she must have been pretty high up in the pecking-order, would you agree?
From time to time I've noticed that "dud" paint-jobs did occur, too.
Mark - As soon as this one has chicks I'll send one of the fledgelings straight off to you..
I'm not sure I've seen the Allach Rabe..? Could you pop a photo of it in here,
please? I'd surely like to take a look. Now I remember it, the one with the heavy monster-beak. A bird like that could smash a garden snail in half for a tasty meal with no problem whatsoever. Allach has an absolutely wonderful repertoire of bird figures, really beautiful stuff.
Bill
Hey Bill..
Dennis has a beautiful multi angle view of Der Rabe on his site
www.allachporcelain.com It is the first pic to the left on his home page and in his 'bird section' he shows it from a couple of views. That one is in Viet Nam. I stupidly did not take it when it was offered to me. I do have 'The Blackbird' tho, and it is beautiful. You can see it in the backround just to the right of the Nurnburg party vase. I just got the Maus (Mouse) from an e-bay seller and will be posting it soon.
Mark
Mark,
Yes, now I remember the Allach Rabe .. I think a bit less robust than the one I was thinking of..? The one that I like was also an early Kärner rendering of a raven, a fat stout bird. I'll see if I can scan it later and post it here...
Your Rohring Amsel is almost a dead-ringer for the Kärner piece above. The lines, weight and tail are quite nearly identical. I've never had a chance to check out any of the Allach birds first-hand and am looking forward to seeing some at this years MAX Show.
I'd really like to add the Allach lizard to my collection someday, have any of you gents seen one for sale or own one?
Ciao for now!
Bill
That's nice! You need birdseed for that one!
Regards, Joe
Joe,
Ha, cracked me up... will you please sell some of those damn pins and medals and invest in some art..?
W~
Ps that's the "minor-minor arts ..."
But I got one of them white squirrels.
Family thought I was
nutty for that.
--dj--Joe
I got a nice Allach Mouse off e-bay...pretty 'cheesy' huh? It will be here tomorrow.
Bill, I have searched long and hard for that lizard. If there is one out there, I'm sure it will be a fluke if we get it.
Mark
Willi,
a very nice "Amsel". Allways nice to see these pieces of Prof. Kärner. He must have been a great artist in his time. Kolibri
Here's one of my favorite pieces. It was produced by Nymphenburg and signed by T. Karner. Amazing detail. Not sure if it is pre or post Third Reich. Opinions?
Bill, how have you been? Been awhile..
Mike Wipf
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Painter's initials..
Here he is with some of his pals from Allach..
Meissen terra-cotta squirrel.
And you thought Allach had the only one..
another view
base
Dear Mike,
That's a beautiful Nymphenburg Schäferhund, easy to see how this form evolved into the great example that he put together for Allach a bit later on. The major difference between the two is the positioning of the animal's forelegs.
The soft, pastel-like colors are really nice on your example, too. I believe yours to be a
pre-'45 model.
I really like the group shot of him with your Amsel, bear and maiden - pretty as a picture!
And a great Art Deco Meissen squirrel made out of Böttger Steinzeug, a extra treat to see.
I have my own ceramic-stone Deco example of a small rabbit or hare, only about a third of the size of your fine squirrel.
Thanks for posting the nice shots, hope you'll find and share more with us.
Hummingbird - I agree the old man was one of the best in his field. But that doesn't mean there weren't others who were just as good - plenty in fact! I just think he was slightly more consistent than almost all the other greats.
Let's see if I can find that "wily-Wabbit.."
Best!
Bill
Here's a little beauty by Hutschenreuther, I believe was produced for export in the 1920s.
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KUNSTABLEILUNG
After all, it IS a dagger forum..
Mike,
Nice move there with the dagger, yessir!
W~
Ps .. see, our forums are politically correct, too! One more thing ... great shots!
Thanks Bill..
My photography has a long way to go. I've had this camera (Fugifilm S5000) for over three years now and still can't get a real decent image. This one has too many bells and whistles, I think a cheap 4MP point and shoot would work better.
Love your little "Amsel", excellent photography.
All the best..
Mike Wipf
There's some wonderful examples of German art posted here, here's my only example of pre-Nazi porcelain, a nice Rosenthal Hund, I believe from the 1920's, I picked this up on my last trip over to the States when some guy from Philli took me antiquing.
Thanks Bill
SfK
Saufängerkid,
That's a good-looking little fellow that Dachshund. Gotta love that Allach Berghirsch too! Looks good mate!
W~
The Mountain Stag is magnificent! The bronze hunter is as well. All very nice to even see. Thanks for the posting.
Mark
MRW,Gary,
Love it all, very nice.
Mark.
Actually the Bronze hunter is Kaiser Willhem II notice his hidden left hand!!!!!
Thanks all
Gary
Gary, thanks for the info..that is some amazing stuff. How did you find that bronze?
Mark
Mark
I managed to pry it from the grasp of Bill sometime last year, it's a beautiful bronze in immaculate condition.
Gary
Anything new? Some impressive pieces shown so far.
--dj--Joe
Joe,
Here's an early 20th century German piece titled, Adler mit Beute, this example around 1913 ... (eagle with its prize...)
... even if it's not imperial, if any of you have a nice pre-'45 European porcelain animal or anything that you think is especially noteworthy, please, be so kind as to share your 'Beute' here with us..?
Best regards to my amigos ... happy trails!
Bill Warda
Remarkle porcelains.
I also really like Gary's bronze statue, just awesome.
Gents,
Sorry that this next unit isn't really imperial
but from the early twenties... I hope you won't hold it against me?
Bill
Bill, Gary & Guys.....
Great stuff !!!
Really enjoyable to see and admire...
You all make me continually commit the sin of envy......
Lou,
It's great to hear from other 'old-time,' heh..(
)
collectors - you and me enjoy this stuff, but do you really think the younger crowd enjoys pieces like these animals?
I guess daggers will always be the rage, eh?
Either way, it's good to collect something.
No commiting sins of envy on my behalf amigo...
you, Jack, Gary, Tim, Andy, et al, should take a ride over some Sunday afternoon for a burger and a beer or two, or three ... at the same time make your reservation on a piece or two of porcelain - I'll be taking some nice units to the MAX this fall, at very attractive prices, too.
And no more sinning you ruffian, especially since the Pope was just here!
Best regards to all !
Bill
Ps .. here's a big old brown bear eating his lunch, by the same German animal-sculptor who did the famous (Philadelphia) John Wanamaker, 'bronze eagle' sculpture, August Gaul. remember seeing that as a kid? You might just see his faint initials cast into the base..?
Just gotta kick this back to the top. So much to see.
--dj--Joe
Thanks to all who have made this thread such a pleasure to view and behold.
Hope this great stuff continues.
Joe, Dean, Fellas,
Thanks for your continued interest, I'm glad to see you guys enjoying this wonderful area of study.
Unfortunately not of imperial-origin vintage,
but nevertheless a Kärner, whose origins began near the fin de siecle. The small photo is just about to scale, while the others are more for detail. Hope you might enjoy this little guy ...
Best regards to all!
Bill
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Enjoy? Most definitely! Every time I step across the threshold of an antique store I hope to find an example.
So far.
Wonder how many survived with tail intact?
Bill, congrats and thanks for sharing.
--dj--Joe
Joe,
Isn't that tail "the teats,?"
..those hands, feet and ears are somthing extra special, too.
Will have something nice to show you soon.
Ciao!
Bill
The 1913 Eagle with Prize is exqusite!!!!!! Thanks for sharing it.
Gents,
Well, I finally have something interesting to share with you again that I hope you might enjoy...
A rare 1913 bronze "Schliereule," by Professor Kärner that he sculpted as a young man. Just enough detail to bring it to life, with some nice embellishment to the face and eyes.
Kärner's bronze works should be considered very difficult to find and should any of you get the opportunity find and purchase one, I'm almost certain you'll be quite pleased with the addition to your collection, no matter your forte'.
Wishing you all the very best of hunting and I hope to see some more porcelains, bronzes or small imperial artworks, from your collections.
Best regards from Philadelphia!
Bill
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Hi Bill,
I was hoping this thread would'nt die out and appreciate you keeping it going.
Really nice bronze that looks very well kept for it's age.
Is there an signature on it or some type of marking linking it to Karner and can you say the approximate size of this item.
Thanks for showing it.
Hi Dean,
I'm doing my best to keep things rolling along ...
Well, let's see ... this solid little fellow tops off at app. nine inches and weighs at least a few pounds. It's nicely signed, Kärner, on the lower, flat rock beneath the base of the owl's tail. I've been looking for a good owl for years, in almost any medium and I must say I'm quite pleased with this neat, small bronze example. The only other one that I really liked was the great Allach owl by Wilhelm Neuhäuser - the white, undecorated pattern is absolutely fantastic!
Thanks for your continued interest. Wishing all of you happy and worry-free collecting - be careful out there ...
Bill
It has an intense gaze.
--dj--Joe
Joe's quite right, it looks as if he's eyeballing a field mouse.
Joe & Billy,
He's keeping a sharp eye on our two kittys, Booboo and Scooter!
heh ...
Bill
Hi Bill,
As you showed before you have a very good taste.
Just let me say something about the statue of the second owl.... Marvellous early Artdéco; I even recognize also a bit of Symbolism; look to the expression of the owl's face.
Concerning Déco; The design shows that the designer has considered the grade between object and naturalist animal... This statue is excellent.
Bill, thanks for posting!
Cheers,
Benten
Benten,
Thanks for the nice comments, always glad to hear from members who enjoy looking at this semi-obscure part of the collecting field.
Here's an interesting old Nymphenburg Dachshund that was originally sculpted by the famous French Animalier, Emmanuel Fremiet. The original bronze sculpture featured two old sitting dachshounds placed in the scene. (one is looking at his paw)
Someone at Nymphenburg decided to make a duplicate of this famous image, though, less one dog and unsigned. Quite possibly it was meant as a tribute to the old master? Well anyway, this is what we're left with, a single, sitting hound with a distinctive bell that's attached to his neck-collar.
In one of the reference books I have, the original bronze piece with the two dogs is misidentified as, "Basset Hounds." If anything,
this is a gnarly, older Dachshound and
definitely not a basset hound!
What do you think..?
Best regards!
Bill
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Gents,
Here's another one that I hope you might enjoy,
a fairly rare, early example by Prof. Kärner.
A Dachshund and a fox having a slight conflict of interests ...
Best regards!
Bill
Woaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah, I really love that piece.
:eek
How big is it ?
Pat,
It's about 12 inches long, 4 inches deep and 2 inches high. I've also seen one that was painted, but it didn't look as good as the all-white example.
Have you added any Allach pieces to your collection? Hope you're doing well my friend.
Best!
W~
Bill,
You have the best collection of porcellan art out there. Just awesome pieces of art! Your Kärner Bronze owl is a "true rarity", more so than any of his paintings and what a marvel to behold. It's the first I've seen or heard of and what a treat! The Dachshund and fox is one of my all time favorites...Thanks again and I can't wait to view what you post next!
I slept through those last two pieces. Nice Bill.
--dj--Joe
Bill,
I love the Eagle, which is very impressive and stunning! The other pieces that jumped out are the white Stag as well as the Jäger with the Wildbret (Red Stag) and a Waidmansheil! Again my favorite is still the Eagle, what a stunning piece! Thank you for sharing! JME
Imperial Roosters ...
Fellas,
Many thanks for your kind words and thoughts, I'm pleased to share my "glass-menagerie" of animals with you.
The long period of 'peace and quiet' from 1871 until 1914, produced a good share of talented, German animal artists. These years of economic stability brought with it a flourishing of the arts in all fields, when the money flows, the arts thrive... During this time period the style of Art Nouveau was king, in Germany it was known as the "Jugendstil" movement.
"Among the principal characteristics were a cursive, expressive line with flowing, swelling reverse curves, entrelacs or interlaced patterns, and the whiplash curve. In decoration, plant and flower motifs abounded, used for the first time in naturalistic form."
Animals also abounded in this naturalistic style, with the field of graphics producing the 'lion's share' of the bounty. To name a couple of my favorites, we have Anton Seder
and Professor G. Sturm, both were truly wizards at the drawing table.
Here's a very simple but powerful image of two roosters going head-to-head, or toe-to-toe, heh ... a very modest design in bold, vibrant, complimentary colors and reflecting most aspects of the exact definition above. This 'fighting-cock' illustration was prepared by an unknown-artist at the turn of the century, hope you might enjoy ...
Here's the bridge back to porcelain animals guys ...
A lovely pair of Rosenthal fighting roosters by J. Feldtmann.
Best wishes to all for the upcoming holiday season, mates!
Bill Warda
Super nice roosters Bill. Do they get you up in the morning crowing? I am amazed they escaped damage with so much delicate detailed work. Now you need a pair of chickens to go with them. James
James,
Bill
Ps no chickens yet, though I recently saw a great early Nymphenburg pair of peeps, would that count?
You can literally wade through hundreds and hundreds of porcelain figurines before you find a pair like the roosters.
99% will look something like this ...
Hey - "don't be hatin" as some would say
That chicken is a Nyphenburg
Gentlemen,
To start with, I'd like to wish you all a great holiday season along with your loved ones.
It's a good time to be thankful for what have and enjoy it to the fullest - you know, eat, drink and make merry..? :-) Maybe a good way to look at life in these silly times we live in, eh? Here's to hope that you all find something super to add to your collections in 2009 !!
A special thanks goes out to all those who've contributed and shared their knowledge in all the forums and consistantly weather-the-storm with us. Gracias amigos!
An Imperial piece I'd like to share with you gents, an early study by Theodor Kärner. This one dates to 1912 and some of you might remember it from a post several years ago?
A rather large porcelain at app. 18" high by twenty inches long and at that size it makes for one of my largest animal sculptures. A little bigger than Allach's marvelous, good-size, "Frederick the Great," this Damhirsch or fallow-deer is found listed in the Nymphenburg catalog as number 157 - an uneven-antlered 18 point buck, eating leaves from an oak tree, having a decorated, natural-style base. Sort of reminds you of one of Santa's reindeer ... er, ahh, Blitzkrieg? ..no, no, that's not it ...
Best regards to all,
Bill
Bill,
That is one beautiful porcelain! Magnificent to look at. The roosters are very finely done as well. Great stuff not so often seen.
Mark
Marcus,
Thanks!
A funny thing about the rooster pair that you might enjoy ...
I've seen this particular sculpture come in several different varieties; the birds done seperately and on different bases and the pair together, most done in a variety of hand-painted, color-schemes. Somehow, all of the painted examples ended up looking a bit amateurish or funky at best. My point being that the decorator/artist/painter can take a good sculpture of an interesting subject and louse it up due to lack of skill or inattention to his/her work. On the other hand, a top-notch technical painter can add so much to a piece,
literally turning a sow's ear into a silk purse.
(only not so drastic as the analogy)
One of the most beautifully painted subjects is of course, Prof. Kärner's, "Der Alter Fritz," or "Old Frederick." (the great, that is)
I can't imagine the foreman letting any of his apprentices practice their skills, or lack of it, on these fine casts?
Mark, is your colored version signed by the artist, or identified with initials? Also,
would you be so kind as to post a nice photo or two of "Old Fred?" Some closeups of the painting-detail would be great if you're so inclined? I never get tired of looking at that wonderful sculpture.
Best!
Bill
Willy, the Frederick the Great piece is identified by the artist's name on the bottom, PROF.TH.KARNER with the model # 94 and the impressed runes, no octagon surrounding the runes.
Pics to follow...
Mark
Gents,
My thanks to Mark Paul for letting me add this image of the sculpture I was talking about, the King of Prussia, der sehr Geehrter, Friederich. This is one of the many fine pieces from Mark's fantastic collection of Allach porcelain. This lovely image of the sculpture will give you an idea of what to look for in a "good" porcelain,
no matter who the maker is.
Take notice to the attention paid to the smallest of details throughout the piece and how the subtle coloration really brings the whole work to life? It is precisely in this aspect that a first-class painter can contribute so much more to an already top-notch sculpture. It just adds that 'extra spark...'
Have a look-see for yourself ...
Again, many thanks Mark!
Bill
pt.2 ...
Now, here's a very nice rendition of Fred by someone else, not an Allach piece but a good sculpture by most standards - I believe it'd be very elegant in pure white .. no?
My point being.., take a good look at the painting, notice how it looks more like a painted toy-soldier? No delicate shading,
no proper depth? It just lets the light play on it at will ... and that's ok but, nothing compared to when a good artist can add his/her own light - colors, shadows and highlights.
Many of the finer porcelain-houses of Germany during the first half of the twentieth century
had several first-class decorators in their employ at any given time. A good painter could be a very valuable asset to anyone's product-line, easily seen in the differences between these two very striking examples.
Hope all of you porcelain collectors out there have a successful and productive year in 2009!
Bill
This is another example of Prof Karner's work,Allach model 17. Magnificent in person.
Mark
a closer view of the detail..
Mark,
These equestrian figures by Kärner are tough to beat for aesthetic appeal. This Seydlitz- Kürassier-Offizier is another good example of
"top-shelf" quality. Beautiful.
W~
I've been dying to add to this thread, for me it's one of the best threads in the last few years.
I was lucky enough to acquire this as a christmas gift from a great friend, I first saw this pattern a year or so ago, it is without doubt my favourite piece of porcelain.
Enjoy.
Gary
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That facial expression is amazing on the monkey. It is so realistic and would make Darwin happy.
The one toe looks like it would snap off if you looked at it wrong.
How do you porcelain collectors keep these fragile and delicate treasures from getting broken?
There so beautiful but yet they seem to be accidents waiting to happen.
It amazes me that there are still ones out there that have remained in perfect condition through the years.
Gary,
That little fella looks like he's in the best of company, sitting there with two great, original Allach examples. He runs with the best of social-circles!
Looks like the studious type, too ..
Dean, I guess that fragile quality is part of the whole appeal, too, in a bass-ackwards kind of way, heh...
Having the kids grown and out of the house helps considerably, prolonging the lifespan of these delicate units. That, along with strategic placement, and/or no rowdy, butter-fingered friends over for company, or big, over-happy dogs flailing about the place are also good things to watch for...
kind of like holding a live butterfly without smooshing the poor little bugger all up.
You'd be surprised at just how sturdy most of these porcelains are, actually they're quite forgiving of the occasional small bump or ding. You just have to concentrate when you move them around - if you're drunk or pre-occupied or talking you just might pay the price ...
so do excercise caution. Oh, and a little bit of luck comes in handy, too. Always hum the Mary Poppins tune while dusting.
Hopefully, sometime during the upcoming new year you'll be sharing your latest porcelain find with us, now that would be great.
Best!
Bill
Gents,
It's been a while we we've seen anything new for a while, I hope a few of you might be ready for some new additions?
First I'd like to say that I noticed a few photos were missing - don't know what's up with that? I couldn't add the fox and the Dachshound to the original thread so I'll try again now.
Here's a small sculpture from one of my favorite women artists who held her own with heavyweights like T. Kärner, Richard Förster and Max Fritz to name a few. Dorothea Moldenhauer produced some outstanding animal figures during her tenure with the Rosenthal company, to include some great bugs, too. This one's a parrot made in 1926 by the young lady.
Hope you'll enjoy it ...
Bill
Ps it doesn't like the fox and dog image, I'll try it a different way sometime ...
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Wow! That is a very nice Amazon parrot. I have three live parrots and the fluffed feathers are beautifully done. I have not seen this piece before, Bill. Thanks!
Mark
Wicked bird Bill!
Truly an ambitious effort.
Thank you for sharing it.
Pauli
Great looking bird Bill. How do you feed all those porcelain critters you now have in your collection. Wonderful art and I do not even have one in my collection. I always enjoy seeing pieces from your collection. Keep them coming. Thanks, James
Bill
Thats a beautiful addition to your menagerie, I'm with James, please keep adding to this thread as and when you can
SfK.
Friends,
Thank you all for your appreciative words and encouragement, I'm pleased y'all are enjoying it, too.
(I just hope the photos don't keep disappearing)
What I'd like to get across is just how high the bar was set for the Allach artists, by some of these early designer/sculptors. The next time you look at a piece of Allach try to keep this in mind, we're looking at some of the finest porcelain work produced during the 20th century. Definitely a tough act to follow ...
Another fine example by Fraulein Moldenhauer is this little Schnauzer that she modeled in 1921. You can start to see why she got to rub elbows with the "big-boys..."
Cheers!
Bill
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... and one for the road ...
also wishing all you guys good luck at the SOS!
Bill
First time I saw an sporty snail!
That is a great one as well.
Bill, that is one cool snail. I am glad you got it.
Mark
James,
More birds for you, a pair of peeps ...
What I like about this one is soft-look of the birds that the artist achieved. There's quite a knack to transferring that type of feeling into any medium, whether it's stone, bronze, wood or hard-paste porcelain. Just enough shadow detail to bring the piece to life, very clean and simple.
Bill
Superb display, just the best !
I really love those little animal figurines, real artitistic gems.
Great pictures too !
Superb pieces.
I'm collecting the wrong chit.
--dj--Joe
Here is my 1930 Meissen titled "Falcon bagging Pigeon" by Max Esser. It is 27 inches high, I forgot the rest of the dimensions. I had posted sometime ago (couple of years). I got this when I was posted in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. I wrote the Meissen company to find out when it was made.
Gentlemen,
Now here's a porcelain sculpture to get excited about, Z06's rare Meissen falcon ...
At an impressive 27 inches tall, this has to be one of the largest figurines I've ever seen, really an amazing size. It must weight a good bit too, around 12-14 pounds?
Max Esser's animal figures are quite unique and beautiful and are also very highly regarded in the field of German porcelain collecting. If memory serves me, I believe he studied with, or apprenticed to the famed sculptor August Gaul.
(one of my personal favorites
) He seemed to bridge the gap between Gaul's rougher, naturalistic Nouveau style and Art Deco, as a bit of both can be seen in his work. Some of his sculptures are pure Deco-style.
Could you imagine this unit standing with a nice Luftwaffe collection ...
Z06 - should you ever get the chance, would you mind showing some details of the falcon's head and claw action that's going on? It's a super piece and many thanks for sharing it!
Bill
Bill
Unfortunately the bird is in storage and I will not have it until August this year. Found the stats: It is 27 inches high and 14 inches wide and weighs about 44 lbs. When I get it I will be more than happy to oblige. As for putting it with a Luftwaffe display, I have seen the Luft newspaper with almost this same design in the upper right corner. Unfortunately I didn't bother saving the picture at that time, maybe one of our members has the paper. Jim
Jim,
Simply amazing!
I can't even guess as to its value, some serious Meissen collector would surely give his left nut for this beauty ...
When the time comes to get it out of storage, I
hope you'll remember to let us take a closer look at your fine sculpture? I hope some of our porcelain collecting friends have a chance to see this one.
Kind thanks!
Bill
Gentlemen,
Here's a pair of early Mallard ducks from the Schwarzburger Werkstätten, around 1919-1925. The hand painting is some of the best work I've seen in a while and my photo hardly does it proper justice ... nevertheless, I hope you might enjoy them.
Cheers!
Bill
Very nice Bill.
I may have caught the bug?
My avatar is a piece that I just bought.
Nuthin' special..but a start.
Thanks for the posting of your wonderful collection.
Cheers, Pauli
Pauli,
I'm glad to hear that you've caught "the bug,"
that's really great, heh ...
What do ya mean, "nuthin' special?" That's a very difficult-to-find and special Kärner horse-pattern, a beauty in my book. Do you know how many different equine patterns the old Professor sculpted? The example you have is one of the neatest horse figures, the jumper with the short, bobbed-tail. Very nice and congratulations - keep at it when you can!
I think I've got four other horse figures by Kärner and that's just scratching the surface ... even more prolific are his deer models - I don't think this man ever slept!
Please post a larger photo of your horse when you can? You're off to a very good start and I wish you much continued luck with adding nice pieces like this to your collection.
Best!
Bill
Bill and all,
My oh my this is one heck of a thread. I sure hope it continues.
Gents,
Many thanks to all who've participated with their comments and lovely additions to this thread, you've made it a pleasure sharing my small collection with you.
It's off to the jungle this week for some animal photography and a bit of R&R with my wife, Becky - the real shutter-bug.
I thought I'd leave you with this piece of diminutive piece of white gold, by one of the artists lucky enough to be chosen for the Allach art-staff, Wilhelm Neuhäuser. This is what's known as a Phantasie (fantasy) sculpture, in other words, a free-form rendering, done from the imagination. Herr Neuhäuser presents to us a small tit-like bird, very alert and full of energy. Did you ever watch a pair of wrens flitting back and forth to feed a nest full of babies? Their vigor and stamina is amazing to see, much like a pair of young grandsons all "sugared-up" on candies at bedtime ...
Kind regards to all,
Bill
Mann,
It reminds me of the "Springendes Pferd" that Kärner did for Allach. That reinforcing base-mount is indicative of the early, twentieth century style of strengthening the model and it's also interesting to note the styles of the various artists when it came to bracing the subject to its base. I appreciate the added effort Herr Kärner took with the animals hooves,
always an extra, unexpected treat for the observant viewer. Good choice!
We'll have to see if we can get some more horses up, I'll see if I can add a couple in the following days ... anyone else, please?
In the meantime I offer you an early bunny rabbit by Professor Theodor Kärner, circa 1921.
The decoration is done in extremely-light, pastel color-washes, the most subtle I've ever seen. It just picks up the detail slightly enough to add a new dimension to the shadows and highlights - nice to have sitting in front of you against a stark white piece to see the small but discernable difference.
Happy Motoring!
Bill
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My humble thanks Bill.
Your postings reflect a very tasteful and impressive collection.
I'm sure they (the photos) are appreciated by many more than you may think.
I'm thrilled to have added this Kärner piece to my novice collection.
I find myself on the lookout for these "critters"
more and more.
The bunny is right on the money. The colored eyes really give life. Certainly full of character.
Thanks again,
Pauli
Pauli,
I hope as your collection grows you'll continue to share it with us ...
Another Pferd by Kärner, a nice round one.
Best!
Bill
Fellow Collectors,
Here's one from the Weimar-period I thought you might enjoy ... this is a rare one, sculpted by Hermann ter Meer, 1871-1934, born and died on his birthday, December 16.
He was a sculptor, inspector and taxidermist at the Zoological Museum of the Leipzig University, and he was considered to be one of the finest taxidermists in the world at that time. His specimens can still be found in zoos and museums throughout Europe and Austrailia.
In 1924 he displayed works in marble and bronze at the Kunstausstellung in the Münchener Glaspalast, four of his figures were chosen to be reproduced by Rosenthal, Bahnhof-Selb. Those four examples are: Dying Tiger, Pelican, Lynx and Dachshund Group.
Hope you might take a minute to study this nice example that was made in 1928.
I'd love to see the three other figures, should any of you gents should ever come across one or more..?
Best!
Bill
Quite the stately pelican there Bill!
Soft colors and rich gloss really make this guy talk.
Thanks for posting the horse, a classic for sure.
r"E"gards,
Pauli
That is a beautiful example of craftsmanship. I enjoy the work very much.
Mark
Mark,
Thought you might like seeing this old bugger,
heh! They're great birds and it's fascinating to watch them dive for feesh ... like old Stuka
dive-bombers, slow but steady.
I realize that many of our Allach collecting friends might not see the direct link between the SS and an object like this one, but there actually is ...
I've said this before, for me this is an illustration of just how high the bar was set by many of the early 20th century German porcelain artists. I can't stress enough to those who enjoy Allach artwork, to check out what some of these other top sculptors were doing before and at the same time as the Allach
"big-ten." I'd love to see Himmler's original list of initial choices to staff the factory,
or did he go right after those ten and "make them an offer they couldn't refuse..?"
It really makes it all that much more enjoyable and interesting!
Bill
Bill, you were looking for more horses. Here are my two; both Allach.
...Oh, I forgot Diana!
Amazing pieces Tristan. WOW !
Tristan, the sword is missing the scabbard lower part. It often snaps off in shipping or unpacking.
Here is how far it goes down below the stirrup.
Mark
Thanks...yes, I'm aware of that. It's the only defect, I think and I will be getting it fixed.
Do you happen to know if the coloured Seydlitz sword is the same length as that on the the white piece. Not all of the details on the former are the same as the latter.
Only the coloured one appears in the 1938 catalogue, and the one in Oliver's book is badly damaged.
I have both the painted and unpainted examples and they look very close in length. I would expect a minor variance in sizes due to the handwork done on these models.
It's a very simple fix and should not cost more than $200.00.
Mark
My pony arrived in
TWO pieces.
Some would have put him down!
before
after
..he's getting better.
I like to have them repaired and look their best! Nice job.
Mark
Gentlemen,
Good to see everyone here and the fine additions to the thread.
Tristan - two lovely and very impressive horses, really a fine pair. And an Amazone, too, ... amazing. That's one rare girl and treat to see, have you had it for a while?
Really a dynamo of power and force this one is, Kärner in top-form !
Mark - thanks for always lending a hand, a true collector and fine gentleman ...
Mann - that's the spirit, excelsior! A beautiful pony again, jumping around like a flea! May you add many more to your stable.
I found a neat Czech piece of porcelain lately, a Great Crested Grebe that I'll post later, very Deco, having nice, flowing lines.
Best to all !
Bill
... here's the boid
A very simple rendering of a freshwater diving bird, the grebe. Almost a total opposite of the super-detailed style of Allach manufacture, having just the slightest bit of detail to the eye. Basically, just a three-dimensional silhouette. You have to admire how well the artist fashioned that distinctive, dinosaur-shaped, "S" form of the neck. Have you guys seen the great bird/lizard-type fossils that have been coming out of China for the past thirty years or so? How about that new-jobber with the opposable thumb..? I once knew a kid's grandmother who looked a bit like that ..
Cheers!
Bill
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That "boid" is slicker than a baby's butt!
Nice!!!
Mark
Just one glance at him and you can sense his haughtiness!
Bill, forgive me for straying outside of the topic, but your grebe reminded me of an aluminium piece I have (fogotten where or when I got it), that has the very same simplistic lines. I think it is a goose of some kind.
Willi,
A slick looking boid indeed, looks like something I saw diving into the East River one time on a trip to NY. You've got some collection by now, will you be loaning it to the Met anytime soon? Great effect with the orange background too, really professional!
Tristan, that is a very slick piece you have as well. It's very different and very neat looking.
Mark
Tristan,
A nice figure indeed! It reminds me of an elongated Brancusi ...
Billy G. - flattery will get you everywhere ..
let's see here ... some notes ..
Abstract Art
"Any art in which the depiction of the real objects in nature has been subordinated or entirely discarded, and whose aesthetic content is expressed in a formal pattern or structure of shapes, lines and colors. Sometimes the subject is real but so stylized, blurred, repeated, or broken-down into basic forms as to be unrecognizable."
I can't imagine Hitler or Himmler having anything to do with something that looked like our stylized, abstract birds - they would have been immediately labeled, "entartete kunst,"
and become the subject of derision and contempt. For them, in the world of art, "realism" reigned supreme and nothing less was acceptable.
What I find particularly interesting is that we can mark the passing of time through these artistic styles. Our own perceptions and re-interpretations of the world around us change and evolve constantly - as does life itself. This evolution is brilliantly illustrated through animal sculpture, especially in the area of European porcelain manufacture. Böttger's new formulas for top-notch porcelain allowed an entirely new facet to appear and develop within the arts. New philosophies and technologies also brought with them new ways of looking at and studying nature.
The abstract way of seeing life in the early 20th century was introduced and developed by men like Picasso and Georges Braque, much to the horror of that stodgy, old art-critic extraordinaire, Hitler. When he came to power he even got the satisfaction of literally crushing this entire artistic movement within Germany, almost to the point of non-existance! Many within the Führer's inner circle sought to gain favor by being familiar with his artistic tastes, so as not to make a faux-pas in his presence. Talk about "brown-nosers"..! heh .. I think our modern sculptures would have been anathema to the old buzzard, but that's what art is all about - vive la diffe'rance and suum cique ...
Best!
W~
Gents,
As another summer draws near I'd like to wish all our members a safe, enjoyable holiday season. No matter where your travels may take you, make sure to check out the antique shops wherever you go. You just never know what you might find in some of those dusty old establishments. It just might be your turn to find that next German Cross in silver or Allach Fahnenträger for pennies on the dollar, eh?
Here's something I recently picked up from a dealer in our neighboring state of New Jersey. You never know where or when things will turn up, just keep at it and sooner or later you'll find something good for your collection, have no doubt. If you're an Allach/porcelain aficionado you might like this early eagle rendering by Max Hermann Fritz.
M.H. Fritz was born in Neuhaus, Thüringen, on July 13, 1873 and died June 13, 1948, in Dresden. He was a graphic-modeler, and sculptor of small-scale figures, especially animals. He completed many fine works for Hutschenreuther, Meissen, Fraureuth, VEB Lichte and Rosenthal. (which makes for quite an impressive resume)
Hope you might find some enjoyment in it ...
Best!
Bill
Very nice Bill! I like the claws on the birds. Now I have to crank up my e-bay searches again.
Mark
It's been a while but I'd like to add a new piece I got in today, this thread is just brilliant. Thanks to all who continue to post.
A super piece "Dachs u Fuchs".
Gary
A Theodore Kärner masterpiece from the nymphenburg factory circa 1910 I think, Bill will know more I'm sure.
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Amigos,
I'm glad were still having some fun with this thread, it's always good to be in such fine company.
That's one of Kärner's super-sculptures that he did back in 1912, for Nymphenburg. The title of this one is, "Fox Yielding to a Young Dachshund," and man, is that fox doing some heavy slinking or what??
There's so much life and energy in this one you can actually feel the violent tension between the two beasties, but that little sausage looks like he's way jumped-up on steroids or something! If the artist Frank Frazetta were a sculptor, this would look like one of his oil paintings. Have any of you fellas ever seen that gent's illustrations? The old Conan the Barbarian book covers and things like that..? Nyce ..!
Gary, take good care of that Doxie's tail, ja? Really a good addition for you, beautiful piece.
Best regards!
Bill
I'm enjoying this thread.Beautiful pieces and were do you find them.I'm always in and out of antique shops and all I find are Welsch grape jelly glasses.
Ed,
I have a full set of Flintstone glasses I can let you have, on the cheap too ...
Glad you're enjoying the thread.
Mark,
Yup, we can do some bird feet, no problem ...
It seems that if they don't have that scaley, "reptilian" look or feel to them, they sometimes tend to look a little cartoonish - to me at least - fussy old poop that I am.
The first two shots are the talons of a 1918 hawk by T. Kärner, and the second two photos an eagle's feet and claws by Anton Puchegger, biting into the flesh of a freshly-killed rabbit. The last two pictures are from a falcon by Gerhard Marcks. These feet are nowhere near as embellished as the first two sculptures, but it does hint nicely at the raptor's claws. It's neat that the artist decided to portray the bird standing with one foot atop the other. These small touches can add so much life to a less-detailed piece like this one.
This is the kind of thing that can "make or break" a bird in my book, no pun meant, heh ... well then, here goes...
... feets don't fail me now !!
W~
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Here's one you won't see too often, an early Kärner Wellensittich, or Budgerigar, preening.
Again, not overly detailed except just in the right places to make the light and shadow to add some life ...
Best!
W~
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Great pictures Willy. I think that the detail of the claws sets these examples apart from the less well finished common stuff. The first one you showed with the curled talons is the most interesting to me.
Mark
Gentlemen,
One of the most most difficult to find subjects in porcelain is/are the "big cats." Most seem to be either sorely lacking in detail or are in general a bit comical-looking, and when painted, the colors and markings seem to be somewhat off. Another factor that also contributes to these animals falling short of being impressive is the fact that they all lack whiskers, as they're much too delicate to fashion in a porcelain rendering. When they're painted on, most times they look fairly amateurish.
The Nymphenburg factory did a series of stylized Bavarian lions that are extremely well executed and are highly sought after by todays collectors. Ranging in size from a few inches to well over a foot tall, the larger ones can be quite expensive at well over a thousand dollars for a good example. These can make for good additions to collections that specialize in Bavarian militaria, as most of the lions sport a shield that's decorated with the familiar blue-white checked Wappen or crest, also found on BMW automobiles.
(Bayerische Motor-Werke) Many of the lions from this series were sculpted by the artist, Rauch, whose last name translated into English means, "smoke."
This feline example was made in 1919 by Max Fritz, the artist who made the all-white eagle that I posted above on pg.5. In my humble opinion this is one of the better lion sculptures that can be found in today's marketplace. The big fella comes in all-white and painted patterns, and most of the decorated examples that I've seen are painted in very natural and realistic color-schemes. At a fairly good size, app. 10x16 inches, this piece will be marked with the VEB Lichte logo and should make for a nice addition to any of you who collect Allach or German porcelain in general.
Hope you might enjoy it ...
Best!
Bill
Yep, that one is definately on my list, a beautiful kitty, a great addition to this already wonderful thread.
SfK
Thanks Bill. All these images are opening my eyes to things other than Allach!
what a powerful and majestic work of art,,
Gents,
Glad that you're enjoying these, after all, that's what there here for. It's good to get some positive feedback to know that I'm headed in the right direction.
Tristan,
Hope you'll share your latest inspirations with us, you've got a first-class porcelain collection.
Kind regards to all.
Bill
I've a long way to go to compete with some of the previous items, but I'll keep trying!
Here's a Meissen seagull presentation shooting prize from a Gauleiter (Upper Donau) in 1940.
Tristan,
I have to disagree with you this time, this lovely gull ranks right up there with
allthe rest of them!
A great, early pattern by Max Esser for Meissen I believe? And the fact that it's a TR presentation piece makes it even that much more rare and desireable. To find a porcelain that's named and awarded is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack! I hope some of the other members who enjoy this type of thing can appreciate that.
In my book this is "cream of the crop" material,
no doubt about it. Many thanks for your post and letting us have a look at this superb example.
Bill
Thanks, Bill...you are most kind with your comments.
Reverse has the blue crossed swords.
Gents,
In the previous lion thread I was telling you about the Bavarian lion series that's mostly attributed to the sculptor, Professor Ernst Andreas Rauch, who worked for Nymphenburg. I'm sure some of you may have seen these figures in passing, especially if you check out eBay porcelain from time to time. There are always some fine examples on German eBay, to include some of the really large, exceptional examples that go for prices over 10K. Although this series may be commonly known as being the
work of Prof. Rauch, that is a misnomer, as there were several other artists involved in producing this Bavarian line of lion sculptures.
One of the other highly talented and notable sculptors was Josef Wackerle, who produced many figures and sculptures during the TR period. Here's a lion that he produced for the Nymphenburg series right after the war in 1946. This one is entitiled, "Barocker Löwe," or Baroque Lion. This style dominated European art and architecture throughout the 17th century, and lasted in some places as late as 1750. It was a dynamic, theatrical style that blended realism, ornate forms and illusionism to achieve its effect. You can easily see where some of the magnificent lion's head swords borrowed their styling and inspiration from when studying these early animal sculptures.
Josef Wackerle created war memorials in Kehlheim, Partenkirchen, Nürnberg, Schweinfurt as well as other towns. During the Third Reich period, Wackerle generally worked on projects together with Ludwig Troost. His style in those days is known as "tectonic sculpture," in which movement and Baroque forms are combined. One of his best known works of that time was the Neptune Fountain in Munich, May 29, 1937. Wackerle also created a series of commissions for prominent buildings. Among them were the reliefs for the Hotel Rheinischer Hof in Munich, the high-rise building of the Zeiss optics company in Jena, as well as the four meter high bell figures for another high-rise in Leipzig, along with Prof. Troost. From 1936 the admired and successful sculptor was a member of the Reich Cultural Council, followed by a membership in the Presidential Council of the Reich Cultural Chamber. On the occasion of his 60th birthday in 1940, Hitler nominates him for the award of the Goethe Medal for Art and Science.
As for his credentials and qualifications, enough said ...
Best regards!
Bill
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Didn't know we were going into the Third Reich era as I also have a Seagul. But here is my nude figurine made by Robert Ullman Wien and the date 1939, which is also written on the foot of the nude. This statue is also in storage and hopefully will be delivered along with the falcon this month. I just returned to the states for retirement (forced to old).
Very inspiring thread here.
Bill, the last two "cats" are the
"cat's whiskers".
Thank you from all of us for your insightful and informative post's.
Nice seeing the gull Tris.
Berlin, Great piece of art there! Also, best of luck in your retirement.
Cheers,
Paul E.
ZO6,
As we don't have a specific area for TR era porcelains other than the Miscellaneous Forum,
please feel free to add any porcelain-related subjects to this thread, no worries. For those of us who enjoy these sculptures it's nice to have them all in one spot.
Your Meissen nude figurine is also a good addition, as the human body was considered a very important theme in National Socialist artwork. With Hitler setting the tone and constraints of what was acceptable as far as art, (and everything else for that matter) one could reason that since he wasn't good at portraying the human figure in his own work, he still very much admired those who could.
I wish you all the best with retirement and hope you take to it like a fish to water ...
we all look forward to any more porcelain that you might be able to share with us now that you'll have a bit more free-time on your hands.
Many thanks ...
Mann, your kind thoughts are appreciated, I trust there will be much more for you to enjoy
in the future.
I wish you all good collecting!
Bill
Hi Bill,
A couple from a house auction. I think they're between the wars. Am I right???
The first is about 4" tall and the second about 6" and bothare very frail looking. I'm surprised they made it this long without damage.
Thanks, Lance
1-1
1-2
1-3, maker mark, pre West Germany?
2-1
2-2
2-3, A couple of the pix aren't too sharp but thanks for looking.
Lance,
Thanks for adding your Hutschenreuther animals to the post, I especially like the nice flowing lines and grace that's captured in the gazelle
sculpture.
I only have a few pieces by this company and am only slightly familiar identifying artists by looking at the different patterns. If I had to take a guess I'd say either Karl Tutter or Karl Himmelstoss sculpted the deer pair and Gunther Granget was responsible for the lovely gazelle.
This company did employ some very famous artists/sculptors during the 20th century. My personal favorites were Professor Fritz Klee, Carl Werner, Max Fritz, Max Esser and Hans Achtziger. I feel that any of these distinguished gentlemen could have easily been chosen for the Allach staff, their work was that good.
The logo-markings on your two renderings would lead me to believe that both were of later production rather than earlier. The mark on the deer is from around 1968-1970, and the gazelle
right around 1965-1967.
I'm glad you chose to post your two fine examples and I hope it might encourage others to share their German porcelain animals and other sculptures with us too.
Many thanks, best regards and good collecting!
Bill Warda
Bill,
Thanks for the kind words, comments and encouragment. I based my guess on the age of the items on the fact that they're marked Germany, not West Germany or W. Germany.
Thanks again, Lance
Lance,
While we're on the subject of Hutschenreuther animals, here's a pair of red foxes by that company. Well sculpted and painted, this model would make for a good addition to a hunting and forestry collection. Hope you might enjoy ..
Best!
Bill
I hope this does not stray TOO far from topic...but in Beijing I saw this artist's work, being a mixture of ceramics and steel and absolutely superb in its execution. The combination of colour and polished steel give the pieces an amazing impact.
I hope/belive if you like porcelain you will like these!
http://www.f2gallery.com/#95cf...7eb8f84403f0d73f62e4
Sorry... doesn't seem to get to the right artist.
Click on ARTISTS and the click on FENG SHU
Tristan,
I couldn't get through on that link, something about installing a Chinese translator..?
I was able to locate some other info on the artist - some beautiful insects and the like.
Let's see if we can get through on this link?
http://www.artnet.com/artist/424906637/feng-shu.htmlBest!
Bill
Got through on that.
Love the Mantis!
Bill, now I have to get some of them bugs. You know I like 'em! That mantis is just killer!
Mark
Thanks, Bill.
These beasties are BIG...the Mantis is 90x100x50 cm!
Marco,
I know you're a "bug-man" too, after my own heart!
If you do get one of these critters, please share.
Have you found any new ones for your menagerie lately? I've gotten a few new birds and a nice frog, but no new insects ...
Tristan - thanks for the link, these are great!
Anything new on your side of the pond?
Best!
Bill
I see the Mantis was sold through Sothebys in New York in March 2008, but I don't know the price!!
Bill....I am well over the other side of the pond, still in China so have no additions of Allach or the like to my collection. Plenty of porcelain here, of course, but mainly jars and pots and too bulky to take home!
Another masterpiece by Kärner, his young sitting collie, first produced by Nyphemburg in 1911.
Cheers
Gary
He stands about 8" high
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Tristan,
Your literally in China, heh ...
at first
I thought you meant, well, you know ...
No, I guess there's not much chance of finding any Allach over there, but maybe a nice small Foo Dog? Have a safe trip home.
Gary,
Now that's some puppy, beautiful mate! This example would make for a great addition to anyone's porcelain collection, Professor Kärner at his best. Somehow it seems his earlier works are even better than his later productions. I believe he made another example that's very similar to this one later on when he worked for Rosenthal. Most of those are painted and don't hold a candle to your lovely all-white example!
He kind of reminds me of Nipper, the old logo for the US-RCA Company. With his head cocked like that, it's looks like he's listening to "His Master's Voice..." as the saying goes.
Great find and thanks for sharing him with us!
Best!
W~
Thanks Bill
I'm so glad to be able to add this piece not only to my collection but to this great thread.
Here he is in his new home.
Thanks
Gary
Gary,
That does it ... now you've got to get a nice case to house and compliment all those first-class units in !!
What a great spot for the eyes to rest on, so much to see, literally alive and "in-tune" to the world of nature. That really looks good.
Thanks for your wonderful additions.
Here's my latest example, I was very pleased to have found him/her?
Great Crested Grebe ...
... by Carl Scheidig, marked with a 1935-1972 company logo. A beautiful small diving bird, the grebe was hunted to near extinction in the U.K. for its decorative feathers, which were used to accent ladies clothing, hats and high-fashion accessories. Vigilant protective measures have seen the numbers increase, and they are once again a common sight throughtout Europe and Asia.
The grebe must have been a favorite if somewhat obscure, bird-study of 20th century German porcelain sculptors. An unusual looking bird with its distinctive headress, these lovely animals can be seen teaching their chicks to dive in freshwater lakes, the adults diving and resurfacing near the floating, bobbing chicks, and then letting the baby birds scramble up unto the safety of their parent's backs for a little "sight-seeing tour."
This porcelain example is of an adult grebe resting on the ground or water's surface, its exaggerated head-plumage making it immediately recognizable to any bird aficionado worth his salt. The sculpture is surprisingly simple with a few very good, basic details to the overall body, but well-refined in the neck and head areas. The beak is elongated slightly too much for my taste and for natural accuracy, but it is well-rendered and has a good, natural quality to the flow of the lines and deeper shadow areas. The painting is also nicely well-understated in general, light pastel shades of tan and light-gray being used define the main body and a darker-green hue to pick out and highlight the animal's unique, distinctively-shaped head.
The German name for this bird is "Haubentaucher," or literally, "crested-diver." The 1941 DJ edition, "Handbuch der deutschen Jagd," volume 1, explains that the grebe or Haubentaucher comes from a very old family of waterfowl, as their feet are webbed differently from those of ducks and most other water-birds. They come from a class of birds known as Steissfüsse and Lappentaucher - "rear-feet" and "rag-diver." The webbed-portions of the bird's feet are more like seperate appendages or skin-flaps attached to the individual toes that help to propel the bird on and underneath the water. The bird's rear-positioned legs are not meant for long-distance walking as they are rudimentary at best. For this reason they are usually seen laying down in close proximity to the water's edge, giving them plenty of time to escape fast predators.
I thought I might again include this Art Deco, Czech example again for comparison, the rear position of the legs being easily seen in this stark, elegant pose. This stylized rendering exhibits very little detail but nevertheless, is also instantly recognizable as a Great Crested Grebe or Haubentaucher. I hope for those of you who enjoy unusual porcelain animal subjects that this one will pass muster? Your thoughts and comments are always most welcomed.
I always look forward to any new porcelain additions that you fellow collectors might care to share with us, and wish you all good hunting ... :-)
Best!
Bill
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A real haughty looking bird!
Tristan,
Are you back from China yet? Hope you had a good trip ...
I figured someone might actually like to see a real pair of these birds to get an idea of their
great headress. Kind of spiffy if I say so myself.
Cheers!
Bill
quote:
Originally posted by WWII:
Jim,
Simply amazing!
I can't even guess as to its value, some serious Meissen collector would surely give his left nut for this beauty ...
When the time comes to get it out of storage, I
hope you'll remember to let us take a closer look at your fine sculpture? I hope some of our porcelain collecting friends have a chance to see this one.
Kind thanks!
Bill
Bill
Received my stuff today and immediately took pictures. If you want any other please ask. Jim
Jim- Thats an incredible falcon peice.
Jim,
A man of your word, three cheers! Many thanks for taking the time to take snaps and share them...
This is one of the finest animal sculptures I've ever seen, one can only imagine how impressive it might be in person! Works like this are what collecting German porcelain is all about, it'd be easy "getting lost" studying all the details, perspectives and dynamic power of the two birds. This piece would lend itself well to any kind of setting, whether displayed where guests could enjoy it, or lending its power and energy to the most spectacular displays of German-themed militaria. A pair of political Honor daggers flanking the falcon would get my attention, sure enough!
If you would good sir..? Could you take a side-on photo of the bird who's about to be dinner? I'd like to see the expression/reaction on its face. From what I can see, he's squaking up a storm...
Great stuff here!
Bill
Bill
Dinner is shown.
Jim,
Yummy!
W~
Let's put some fish on the menu, too!
A freshwater angelfish by Fritz Heidenreich for Rosenthal, 1937.
Bill
Here is my KPM dog. I don't know when it was made as my book of marks doesn't show this version. I had another dog but it got destroyed in shipment.
I forgot the title to this piece, as I remember is is "The Black Swan and ***". It is made by A.W.Fr. Kister and has the mold number 12798 over C imbrossed on the bottom. Jim
Willi,
As mod, is it possible to pin this thread? I'll admit I'm little more than an interloper in the topic of Allach
but it seems to me this thread contains a ton of wonderful member pics & oodles of very useful information. I believe it would be a damned shame to lose it were the GD software to have a brain lapse as has happened in the past with so many good threads.
Bill...apologies for not replying to your post of 9th September. Yes, back in Bonnie Scotland and a new bird! (though I think you have seen this one elsewhere!)
Jim,
For those who aren't familiar with the firm of KPM, a little background is in order. This is an old company that's been around for nearly 250 years. The initials stand for, "Koenichliches Porzellan Manufaktur," in Berlin. Well known and respected in the field of porcelain, KPM should be considered as one of the top manufacturing-houses in Germany, along with names like Hutschenreuther, Meissen, Rosenthal, Allach and Nymphenburg, to name a few.
Your dog is absolutely first class - great composition, anatomy, detail and painting.
Exactly what one would expect to find coming from KPM. This is what seperates the good from the ho-hum and mediocre. I think an example like this would more than hold its own among a collection of the finest Allach examples.
I think your second sculpture is commonly titled, "Leda and the Swan..." from the old Greek myth when Zeus comes to her in the form of a swan and has his way with the beauty - heavy with erotic overtones, heh ... a marvelous work. Does it have a bisque finish or would you say it's more of a matte glaze? Either way, this unit is truly a classic!
Tristan,
Good that you're back and I'm very pleased for you that you chose to add this fine Amsel, or blackbird to your collection, superb! What hasn't been said about this little wonder before? However, I could look at something like this for the rest of my life and not grow tired of it, it's that elegant and refined. Seems a common trait among all Allach sculptures ... you're almost tempted to reach in and steal one of his strawberries! Can't wait to see your new Dachshund ...
Billy old friend,
Thank you, that really means something coming from you.
Amigos,
I've been poking around a bit myself lately,
and come up with something I hope you might enjoy ... if you remember, Mark P. and I share a positive sentiment for porcelain bugs, heh ...
... for me, this one is like finding a cherry, maker-marked SS dagger.
The beetle scurrying about in the foreground is lifesize at about 3.5 inches, it'll give you an idea of what a nice size the pair is.
Hirschkäfer im Zweikampf - (Stag Beetle Duel)
A compelling study of two stag beetles locked together in combat, by Sigismund Wernekinck, 1872/1921. (polychrome under glaze) This model was made between 1910 and 1920, by the firm of Galluba & Hoffmann, located in Illmenau. An oversized composition at approximately double-life, the piece measures 4.5 x 8.5 inches. The sculpture depicts a pair of fearsome-looking creatures with their pincers locked in struggle, truly a battle royale. The base is subtly decorated with oak leaves and acorns, portrayed in a minimalist style that doesn't detract from the eye's focal point of interest. The attention to the complex body structure is outstanding and the details are well-highlighted which brings the animals to life in a very realistic and naturalistic rendering.
So that about wraps it up for now, sincere thanks to all those who've contributed so far, and as for those who can't, we hope you enjoyed our thread.
Best!
W~
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You are right on the name, I thought it was Leda but wasn't sure. It has a bisque finish. Jim
Jim,
Found an example of your KPM dog in white. I like your painted version better.
W~
Gents,
Recently found this neat little bauble that most will immediately recognize as the open-style, imperial naval dirk pommel. It's actually known as the 1871 Staatskrone, or state crown, which came into being shortly after the unification of the German states under Wilhelm I and Bismarck.
I'm fairly certain this miniature crown was produced by the firm of KPM, but from what date I can't say for certain as I've never seen or heard of another..? ... anyone?
The small cross/crucifix has been lost but I think it's a very worthwhile restoration project. I can easily supply the porcelain people with drawings and photographs of the various, original finial styles.
As a rule of thumb I try to stay away from buying damaged examples but I thought this one was well worth a little extra effort. The detail to this little-critter (about 2.25 x 2.5 inches) is nicely rendered and accurate.
Good collecting to all !
Bill
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The ooloured Dackel has arrived and is with his wife and the wins!
...
I have to admit that I generally prefer the white examples but when you see them painted so well, there just beautiful, Tristan a magnificent foursome.
Gary
T,
This is the first time I've seen the white and decorated pair side by side and it's really a most impressive sight! I think you made a very good choice going after both pair, and that display looks mighty fine in your cabinet!
As an aside, yesterday I saw an older piece that was an attempt to copy Kärner's sitting
Junger Dackel. To say the least, it fell horribly short of the mark ...
Your Allach pair have to be among the best dog figures ever produced in porcelain and there are quite a few in that category, heh ...
As always, sincere thanks for taking the time to share your latest acquisitions with us, you are a most-kind gentleman.
Bill
I appreciate your comments, guys...Thanks very much.
I too prefer white porcelain, but wouldn't it be nice to have in a collection a white
and a coloured example!!! Maybe some of our very advanced Allach collector colleagues have such collections, and the rest of us can only wish!
Here is my other 'family' so if anyone can find a coloured standing fawn for me I would be very grateful.
Tristan,
Putting together a collection of all-white and colored Allach examples would be quite a lofty endeavor. Not impossible by any means, but financially it would be difficult for most of us. I'd rather put my savings into something like that than trust my 401K plan to produce any meaningful results ...
Your colored fawn is really something special,
very sparing decoration and ever so soft and subtle. Nice! That is one first class display.
Here's another example that's nicely colored.
This is a Czech porcelain by Zsolnay, most definitely postwar, though, inexpensive, nicely rendered and for that, well worth having a look at. A reclining European buffalo - a bison or Wisent.
Best!
W~
Bill, you do pick up an amazing variety of porcelains!
Have you seen this type of thing before? Apparantly it is Parsifal rescuing the Angel, or so I'm told. It is priced far too heavily b ut interesting nevertheless.
http://www.phoenixmilitaria.ne...wproduct.php?id=1307
Here's my latest, a huge bronze stag by Kärner, stands around 16" tall.
Gary
2
3
To give you an idea of his size, pictured next to a large Allach hirsch.
Baz...Impressive! You dont have a coloured Standing Fawn do you?
Have you seen the Bronze on Ulrich's site?
Scroll down the attached list to the bottom.
http://www.ulric-of-england.com/porcelain.html
Gary,
What an incredible find, that is nothing short of amazing!
Anything by Kärner in bronze should be considered rare and even more difficult to find than its porcelain counterpart.
To me this is simply a beautiful unit, just magnificent! There are so many good stag figures out there in porcelain, bronze and carved wood, many of which are first class sculptures, but in my book no one even comes close to Herr Kärner's deer renderings - stags, does or fawns, it doesn't matter which, they're all definitely "a cut above." Even his drawings and paintings of the Red-Deer family are extremely fine and show an intimate knowledge of these animals. There's just so much life and energy in his work, a real pleasure to see. Absolutely a classic and a great addition to your hunting and forestry collection. Well done!
T,
I haven't seen this particular pair before but I do agree the price is a bit heavy-handed. There are so many good human figurines out there, you can take your pick - figures from the great operas, historical and military themes and even the old European fairy tales are well-covered.
I still like the Allach human sculptures the best of all. The quality is second to none and the fact that it's from the SS does it for me. I think I'd rather have just one of those than fifteen good ones from other companies, heh. The only human figure I have in my own collection is Theodor's, "Amazone," and that's only because I'm a big Kärner fan.
Thanks guys for sharing your great stuff and thoughts with us, keep up the good work!
Best!
Bill
Bill
Thought you would like that one, he is an impressive beast. Have you seen many bronzes by Kärner, I know you have that beautiful owl, I wondered if you had seen other stags or deer by this artist in bronze.
I'm thinking this piece is 1910-1930, is there any literature to tie the date down a bit.?
Tristan
I'm sorry no coloured standing fawn, I tend to stick to the white models.
I hadn't seen that bronze on Ulrichs site before, not really my cup of tea in the green, I think it's a moose or Elch, thanks for pointing it out though.
Thanks guys
Gary
Gary,
I'm afraid you won't see too many of his bronzes
for sale, though, once in a while one will pop up. Most places that keep finalized auction bids
and somewhat limited descriptions are those art/artist sites that charge a membership fee,
some priced quite steep. Much of the available data is just a re-hash of Kärner's biography.
When compared to his porcelain figures the number of bronze works is very low. I'd say that's a pretty fair statement. It seems the good Professor primarily concerned himself with
hard-paste projects and rendered bronzes only on occasion. Some of those can be correctly dated starting in the 1910's, 20's and thirties - again, rather infrequently.
Besides the owl, the stag and a couple of horse-related bronzes, I haven't seen much else of his out there. A while back some ultra-rare TR bronze pieces came from the estate of his co-worker, Franz Nagy. Two of the most familiar sculptures that were found, 'The Fencer,' and 'The Flag-bearer,' were the only known copies to exist in bronze, I believe?
I'm sure there are other works in bronze out there to be noted, I have to check one more old list I have for some more possible examples. That would be a good thing to tack on to this thread as time goes on ...
T, I think I have a good photo of the colored fawn you're looking for somewhere around here?
That's the best I can do for now -
Good hunting to all !
B~
This is a Patriotic bust I picked up in an auction and I think the helmet is an M16, so I presume Imperial era.
Can anyone help me out with the coloured crown logo on the base?
This is interesting because I have a spelter SA Rider with what looks like the same logo, but I was never sure if this piece was a period one or post-Second War.
Any comments much appreciated
..
Crown logo
Similar logo on belly of SA Reiter statue.
T,
I looked all over the place for your maker's mark - zip! I was sure I'd seen it before but maybe not?
There are so many crown logos but none like this one, without any additional wording to go with it. I'll keep at it and let you know if I come up with anything
useful ...
In the meantime here's a pair of tigers that I purchased recently from a lady in Germany. Here's a bit of detail about it ...
... A large sculpture by Gayer, approximately late-twenties, early 1930's. Manufactured by Fraureuth, the piece is mounted on an oval base and is roughly 8 x 10 x 16 inches and weighs roughly 12lbs. The standing male figure is giving his mate a friendly washing as cats of all sizes tend to do. The young lady is in a restful pose, either thinking about their next good meal or a deep snooze in the cool,
jungle shade ... or perhaps just enjoying the friendly grooming and daydreaming? Ever wonder what they think about?
Good study and detail to the cat's anatomy, the sculpture is full of a pensive, underlying energy even though the two are just relaxing. You can feel the inner strength of the two animals - ready to go into action so fast the eye can barely follow it. The balance and placement of the figures is well thought out and it leads one's attention in a gentle circular fashion, to take in the power of the deep muscle-tones, well-placed shadows and overall depth of the work.
Often times adding any painted detail to a cat figure turns into total disaster! In my humble opinion it's extremely difficult to add a clean and unpretentious decoration. Only the most skilled and sophisticated artist can accomplish the task with any high degree of efficiency. The tigers and leopards seem to be the most exacting of all the larger felines to paint in a naturalistic scheme, rather, most end up looking like a simple child's toy rather than an imposing predator -
sometimes less truly is more! Tristan - can we have a look at the SA rider, please?
Good hunting to all !
W~
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3/3
HI Bill...I do like the tigers! The female just seems to capure that 'slumped' look!
In looking at an old catalogue I found an exact same 1st War Patriotic bust as the one I have, and it was described as having the Nymphenburg logo on the base. But I think I am right on saying that mine is NOT a Nymphenburg marking. It is certainly not up to the standard of that company.
I'm attaching images of the SA Reiter...what makes me think it is post war is the lack of detail on the insignia; no swastika, no collar tabs and just the hint of an eagle on the kepi.
The horse detail is better than the rider! The other thing is that the price I paid is in keeping with a copy and not a period piece, and I gave up believing in Santa Claus a long time ago!
The rider.
Rear view
Horse's head.
I have missed out by not popping in on occasion. I agree with Billy this thread should be preserved for future reference.
Z06Berlin, What a lovely piece, top notch. I love it and just look at that detail! It reminds me of the Greek and art noveau style of antique porcelain accessories or decor for elegant bathroom use. Not nearly as nice as yours but my wife has an antigue soap dish in greek style.
Gary, you lucky old dog, a Karner bronze! Rare, rare, rare! Magnificent piece! Congratulations!
Tristan, Nice stuff! I wasn't about to state that about your nice stuff so glad you mentioned it because the mark looks like Prince Fredrich Christian of Saxony Althausen 1955. But when you get a spare moment would you mind taking another picture of your marks please? Thanks
Bill, Talk about the cat’s meow! My oh my!
Thanks to all for sharing their fabulous collections. It's very much appreciated.
Tristan,
I hope I'm wrong but without clear pictures of the marks I can only guess. Have you had a chance to compare your marks? I hope it helps steer you in the right direction in any case. Best.
I would wait to hear what Bill's opinion is. His knowledge in this field is absolutely amazing. In fact you can bank on it.
ZO6 Berlin, That Kister company has one long history. The factory was bought up in 1990 by Konigl. Priv. Porcelain Factory Tettau. Thanks for showing it off to us.
Beautiful Bronze Gary, I've collected 19th century classical French Bronzes for years and although I now have an interest in Allach I do still think that when it comes down to the really fine detail that Bronze has the edge over china and porcelain but that's just my own opinion and I do not wish in any way to diminish the beauty of Allach porcelain, in fact at the moment its my main collecting focus having recently expanded my little family of Moritskens to 3, which reminds me, Bill W, sorry for the delay but I will now try to get you some more pics of the Prophet, had a family knock back recently and not yet back fully in the swing, apologies.
Nolan
Gentlemen,
I wanted to say thanks to everyone for your support for this thread and kind comments - here's to all of you for adding so much great input and material, cheers!
Also a special word of thanks to "derjäger" - Joe G., for pinning our thread and always helping when I run into technical difficulties, which is normally quite often ... muchas gracias amigo!
Mikee - glad to see you back in town. It's always good to hear your take on things as you have a keen eye for all kinds of great goodies. I've got a small collection of photos that I'll be posting soon for your enjoyment and hopefully several others will approve of them, too ... heh. Some pictures of lovely pieces that I couldn't add to my collection for one reason or another - most, because of their prohibitive prices.
Tristan - no relationship to the Nymphenburg factory I'm afraid. I haven't found the logo for the company that Mikee mentioned yet, but when I do I'll post it. I don't think your SA rider is necessarily postwar. I've seen German bronzes and metal work run the gamut in quality, possibly so that the ordinary guy could afford something for his home or desk too? If you think about it for a moment, not everyone could afford Zeitner-quality gifts and baubles to present. There had to be lots of Spelterware and odd, inexpensive, alloy-type castings to be bought for the patriotic home, no? That's what I think this one is, not top-end but most likely an original period piece.
Herr Nolan - Sorry to hear that you ran into difficult times, I hope things are on an upward swing for you? Looking forward to seeing some photos of your dancers when you get some time. In that vein, figures that is, I'd like to start off posting one that most Allach collectors will surely recognize, the merry prankster, Til Eulenspiegel.
I recently found this beautiful Meissen rendering of the fairy-tale character on a German auction site. Methinks the quality of this example easily rivals that of anything produced by Allach. In my humble opinion even the pose and symbolism is slightly better than its Allach counterpart and I'll try to explain why ... in German the name Eulenspiegel literally means, "owl-mirror." Here the brilliant sculptor, Willi Münch-khe, has incorporated those two words into the work, as we can clearly see not only the owl, but also the hand-mirror in Til's grasp. A very subtle and clever way the artist identifies his subject without words, a very nice touch. With the Allach example the viewer only sees a figure and has no way of knowing exactly who the subject is, unless he/she posesses some knowledge of the Allach product line or catalogs and photographs. With Khe's example the keen eye just might pick up on the symbolism to identify the strange person in the jester's garb? Til may have been a jester but most often his pranks weren't funny at all and some were so nasty that they eventually hung the silly prat. ha!
I trust you all might enjoy this work as much as I do ...
Bis später, best!
W~
Hey Bill,
Thanks for the welcome back and I totally agree with you! That is an exceptional piece by Meissen, far above and beyond other manufacturer’s attempts at the same. Absolutely impressive and astounding! Meissen has always been one of my favorites. I'm so glad you were able to grab this one for your already impressive collection and best of all you’re willingness to always share these works of art with us along with your profound knowledge. I have learned so much from you. Best!
Bill, That is just an amazing piece. Can I ask how much it was in relation to an Allach Jester?
Mikee - Tristan,
Sorry for the misunderstanding but this unit doesn't belong to me, though, I really wish it did ...
I wanted to post a few examples of work that fell into the category - pieces that I either missed or just couldn't afford. However, I can tell you the little that I know about this particular sculpture...
This model was first sculpted by Münch-khe in 1928 and this one sold for around 2500 Euros.
There's another, later, different example of Till by Meissen that can be purchased directly from the company today, that lists for over 5000 E. I'm not sure of the artist who did the second piece but it shouldn't be too difficult to find out. I think Khe's '28 version is much superior to the second rendering, but that's just an opinion.
I also happened across two other versions, one by Hutschenreuther and another by Rosenthal, neither being up-to-snuff compared to their Allach and early Meissen counterparts.
You may also find Till spelled a few different ways if you're searching - Til, Tyl among others. The most common is Till.
Again, sorry if I wasn't clear before ...
I wish all of you much good hunting!
Bill
Ps - here's another one that I don't own but thought worthwhile having a look at. A great Art Deco frog by Rudolf Lohner, early 1920's if memory serves?
Mikee...Another image of the 'Crown' on the Patriotic bust. I don't want to take the rider off the base and cannot get a better picture.
I've tried 'Googling' the name you gave me without success...can you give me any more info, or a link? Thanks.
...look what just crept in????
Tristan
I see you've been down to the woods today
, a very nice surprise if they just happened to creep in to your house.
Beautiful
Gary
Tristan,
Thanks for showing your bears.
Can't find a link but will continue to search. From your picture I'm not sure, seems to have some differences. Same company had another crown with just the ball on top of the crown but had a shield displayed under it. This mark is the only crown mark I found with no other markings around it that closely resembled yours. Without further markings its not easy to identify unless we stumble across an exact match. Anyway,its always worth a try and if you find something please let us know.
Baz, Mikee, thanks for your comments and info. I'll keep looking and let you know if anything definite turns up.
Tristan,
Any one of Kärner's Allach bear-cub series is simply a delight to study, appreciate and hold in one's hand. It seems that any of the four given examples perfectly captures the spirit of these young imps. You can really feel what these youngsters are all about - inquisitive bundles of energy, ready to turn any opportunity into playtime!
This essence or life-force that Kärner captures in his figures is key to their appeal. Your pair will make for a great addition to your collection and I'm sure you're already scouting for the rest of the series. Great score. One of the best porcelain bears I've ever had the pleasure to see was the Professor's early Nymphenburg sculpture of an adult grizzly bear, just padding along ...
Two other examples in the "bantam-weight class" is this young Esel or donkey and a fawn by Willi Münch-khe, the gifted artist who sculpted the fine rendering of Till Eulenspiegel, just above. A little background about the artist - Willi Eduard Heinrich Münch-khe, German painter, graphic artist, engraver, sculptor and author, 1885-1961. Between the years 1903 and 1907 he studied glass painting at the Acadamy in Karlsruhe. From 1910 until 1911 he was employed at the Majolica porcelain factory in Karlsruhe as a painter/decorator. Then in 1912 he was hired as a painter with the firm of Meissen. In 1913 he also became an accepted porcelain modeler for the company. Between 1925 and 1932 and again from 1954 until 1956, he worked as a freelance sculptor of small animal figures. Many of his animal works were manufactured in Böttger-Steinzeug, which looks like reddish-brown stone. Many of the animals are newborns or very young, one of his specialties. His series of calves, fawns, donkeys, etc., are easily recognized by their spindly and unstable legs. But no worries mates, the finished examples are anything but unstable. Herr Münch-khe had an uncanny knack finding the perfect balance for his subjects, even though they give the impression of being unsteady. He also studied under and was very friendly with another top-notch and supremely talented sculptor, August Gaul.
I trust you might enjoy these two pieces ...
Bill
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Bill, your knowledge in this area never ceases to amaze me
This is one piece I have been waiting for, just to keep my White Schaeferhund company!
...
Tristan,
That's the way to go old man!! ... holy smoke,
you've done it again.
Your theory of "one white, one colored," is really coming to fruition I'm glad to say. This is really a most impressive way of looking at and appreciating Allach.
When one of these master-painters completed something, they brought in a whole new way of defining the subject. Beautiful work!
As always, gracias.
Bill
Gents,
Wanted to share these two fine pieces by Meissen, both produced in Böttger Steinzeug.
The first example is one of the best examples of a bison I've ever seen, by Erich Oehme and the second is a partridge or Rebhuhn, I believe by Max Esser?
Sadly I don't own either of these two items, but both are well worthwhile having a look at.
I trust you might agree ...
Best regards!
Bill
Rebhuhn ...
Ps - for those who might own a piece of Steinzeug you can work any ordinary good oil into the surfaces and just rub it in with your fingers and a clean soft cotton rag. Naturally, don't forget to clean any dust and dirt off beforehand. These oil treatments will give the stone-like material a sheen that mimics bronze. Unlike metal finishes the Steinzeug will actually benefit from handling and the natural oil from one's hands.
Bill, you suggested that the Meissen Seagull piece I have is by Esser, and it is nice to see another 'bird'example of his.
Tristan,
Max did some beautiful work during his career,
as your seagull and this partridge clearly shows. He could work in all sizes and in many various styles, too. From ultra-stylized Art Deco to photo-realistic renderings the man could do it all. The more of his works that I find, the more respect and admiration I have for this gifted artist. Truly one of the greats from this time period.
Another slightly less-known sculptor from the late-Imperial and Weimar periods was Fritz Klee, who was also responsible for some exceptional Art Deco animals. Case in point,
this unique gilded, crayfish/lobster jar w/lid.
What I especially like about this little crustacean is the fact that Klee decided to give him only one gold antenna instead of two.
Somehow the old boy decided to sneak that very subtle bit of Deco in on us, nice touch.
Sadly, another small gem I don't own but nevertheless one I wanted to share with y'all.
My best advice would be to see if you can get in one more early Christmas present for yourselves ... something along the lines of this piece would be perfect, or a nice Allach would do in a pinch, too.
Best!
W~
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3/3
Bill...Thanks for sharing your knowledge, and to you and all those who have contributed to this excellent thread, have a GREAT Christmas and all the best for 2010!
Tristan,
Backatcha ...
Here's to trust that all our collecting friends and acquaintences have a very good year in 2010!!
... hopefully a little treat for those who've contibuted, visited and enjoyed the thread - cheers to all of you! Thanks.
Art Deco Panther -
Main Entry: powerful
Part of Speech: adjective
Definition: strong, effective
Synonyms: able, all-powerful, almighty, authoritarian, authoritative, capable, cogent, commanding, compelling, competent, controlling, convincing, dominant, dynamic, effectual, efficacious, energetic, forceful, forcible, impressive, in control, in the saddle, influential, mighty, omnipotent, overruling, paramount, persuasive, potent, preeminent, prevailing, puissant, robust, ruling, sovereign, stalwart, strapping, strengthy, sturdy, supreme, telling, upper hand, vigorous, weighty, wicked*, wieldy
Best!
B~
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Simply Stunning,
Bill
what can you tell us of the manufacture and sculpture.
Bill,
Woah! My jaw just hit the floor. Where in the heck did you find it? I can stare at that piece forever and just look at those lines! I love it!
,,What a great "cat" Bill.
Thanks for posting all the pics guys.
Paul
I'm not a porcelain guy but that is one bad a$$ cat!!
Gents,
I thought you might enjoy this one, it really is a beauty ...
G - I lost all my notes on this one, the whole shabang! I believe it was originally produced in 1926-'28? Forget the artist, too. doh!
Mikee - This is a modern factory re-cast, one of two defectives that were left-over from a small, limited edition firing. With shipping, insurance, etc., it would have been well over $1300, so I passed on the deal. Instead I found some fine older pieces that I was much happier with ...
Nevertheless, a fine piece of work that I hope will inspire all of you for the coming year.
Bill
Bill,
I would have to say, although it's an extremely nice piece, it’s a little pricey and I would've done the same and thank you for the info on this one.
Fellas,
A little something to get you into the Christmas
spirit ...
Cheers!
B~
Great photography Bill and thanks for the festiveness.
I just about flipped when I saw your panther.
The deco styling on it is too cool.
I never seen anything like it before.
You come up with great stuff.
Real eye candy.
Wow, I always loved Art Deco, but the Panther tops it all. Love it to bits.. even made it into my wallpaper on my PC. Is there any chance of a photo that would cover it all?
JAN
Bill,
That's great! You take awesome pictures and I wish I had your photog skills.
Gentlemen,
It's always a pleasure to share my small finds and observations with all of you. It's especially enjoyable seeing and discussing what our fellow members add to the thread, you guys have contributed so many first class porcelains - my profound thanks for that!
I look forward to all of your additions in the fast approaching New Year.
Jan - wish I had a bigger panther-file to give you but that's all there is ... how about a nice poison-arrow frog?
By the way, that is one awesome bayonet collection you have, all top quality. My favorite is the unit with the wood grip that's cut to simulate stag-horn, now that's artistry!
Merry Christmas friends!
Bill
liegendes Windspiel - Laying Italian Greyhound
Designed by Theodor Kärner, 1923, Model Number 13, for Rosenthal Kunstabteilung Werk, Bahnhof-Selb.
Starting in 1918 the energetic and tireless sculptor was employed as a freelance artist for Rosenthal, responsible for producing approximately 100 or more porcelain animal figures between the years 1923 and 1934. He then packed his bags and left to go to work for Himmler's Allach Porzellan factory.
Model 13 (initial production)
A sleek racing-dog at rest with its head turned to the rear, (his left) and mounted on an oval, lightly-decorated base. His left front leg is gently streched forward to the front while the right front leg is angled under the chest area. The rear legs are pulled in close and positioned beneath the form. The animal's tail wraps below the body from it's right to left and is cast seperately.
This kind of atheletic and refined study of the canine's body is characteristic of the artist's work, you can actually see and feel how fast this lithe pooch is. The head is thin and narrow with the ears also small and delicate for minimal wind resistance, all on a long flexible neck. The graceful, powerful curve of the spine and hind-quarters, the tightly-tucked stomach area, brilliant detail to the legs and paws are all evidence of the sculptor's powers of observation.
In Rosenthal's model-lists from Kunstabteilung Bahnhof-Selb, you will find another listing for a later, slightly smaller version of the Windspiel (Model 80) also produced by Professor Kärner. The difference is not only reflected in the overall size, there are a few other nuances, the most notable being the tail was cast directly into the animal's left hind-quarter as opposed to being a seperate piece as found on the original earlier sculpture.
The example pictured is marked with the 1929 Rosenthal Bavaria logo and incised, T.Kärner, and also has the model number, 80, impressed at the bottom. When I first saw the maker's mark for some reason I thought it was a 1935 date, further proof of my terrible eyesight - good thing I'll be getting new optics soon! The Rosenthal marking system can become quite tedious at times and it always pays to double-check, heh ..
This latest addition to my collection holds a very special meaning for me, I hope you'll enjoy it too ...
Happy New Year - calm seas and a prosperous voyage!
W. Warda Jr.
Has anyone any idae of this maker? It is stated to be by Kutschenreuter and has LHS on the base.
Looks beautiful but what period?
http://www.regimentals.co.uk/s...p?shoph=44907&phqu=1
Tristan,
The Hutschenreuther markings sound correct -
(LHS) Lorenz Hutschenreuther Selb.
I can only see the one photo that's directly linked, are there any more? Is there an artist's name or initials somewhere? What period does the seller say it's from?
There are quite a few logo variants to be found with the LHS marking, covering a good timespan.
I'd have to see a good clean image to be of any further help.
My first impression is early postwar but I can't be certain without seeing more details. Possibly by Granget?
Looks like a large impressive raptor, great pose.
Best regards!
Bill
Bill, there is only one photo and on the base there is said to be an image of a lion standing over 'LHS' with the makers name under the glaze...24 inche wing span and said to be 'TR period'...£875 asking price
T,
That's about $1200+ US right? I'd want to see his head and a few more shots for that kind of money, I wouldn't buy it going on just the one photograph, even from an aesthetic standpoint.
What I see in the photo looks very nice, the pose, the sculpture and the painting all tiptop, but I'd want to see the head and face,
too. That's the part that can "make-or-break"
a good raptor for me. There is a possibility it was photographed like that on purpose, no?
As for dating the piece, that should be of secondary importance considering there are so many slight variations in the markings. Very easy to make a mistake in this area.
If the painting of the head looks good and a proper, "no-questions" guarantee is given, I'd venture a look-see, it is a very impressive unit, no matter the time period.
Good hunting!
B~
Thanks, Bill.
It is a lovely piece, and I have had good associations with the dealer but I think I will probably keep my money for a future Allach piece.
Bill,
A fantastic piece and really something to look at and study. The amazing attention to detail is a joy on this guy, right down to the dew claw and stretched skin. Thanks for the look.
T,
I think that's a wise move, just keep plugging away at those fine Allach pieces!
Mikee,
Happy to share and glad you enjoyed it. You can even just see the teats on the belly area, too. Who could ask for more than that?
Got this from Santa at Christmas - you have to be extra good all year to get one of these ...
Best!
W~
Bill,
I noticed the teats right away, amazing set! Bill, you must be doing something right!
Bill
The exchanging of gifts at christmas is always a time I look forward to.
I just had to post this piece. Just in from Germany, a magnificent Bronze Rehbock by Fritz Diller. He stands 19" tall and is 15" long, a real heavy piece.
I hope you guys like him as much as I do.
Gary
2
3
G,
You posted this just in the nick of time, I was beginning to have severe withdrawal symptoms ...
For those keeping score, Fritz Diller was another premier 20th-century German animal sculptor. He studied under and worked alongside many of the most recognized and respected Tierbildhauer (animal sculptors) of the day. Your beautiful new Rehbock bronze is another example of just how talented Herr Diller was. He was a prolific artist, having completed many, many works in various mediums to include porcelain, bronze, aluminum-alloys and countless other relief-castings in metal. I'd go so far as to say that Herr Diller kept himself as busy and productive as Master Kärner.
The patina and coloration of this particular sculpture is quite exquisite, the soft reddish-browns and golden highlights are as close to perfect as anyone could hope for. Someone took special care of this example and now again, it resides in trustworthy hands ...
One more quick thing ... Fritz had a son named Helmut who was also a noted animal artist, if you have a chance you might want to have a look at some of his work -
well worthwhile.
Thanks for sharing your latest catch with us, most enjoyable!
Bill
Fritz also had a keen interest in dogs, here's man's best friend with a mug that only a mother could love ...
W~
These are great dogs with a great temperament.
This is exactly how they look, ole Fritz is a superb sculptor.
I'd love to find one of these.
Gary
Gary,
Nice find and a fantastic piece of art work. What is there not to like about this piece, it's great!
Meine Herren,
It's been a good while since we've seen anything new here lately, hope everyone's been alright? Perhaps a new piece on the way, something good like that..?
Nothing much new here presently but I did spy this very nice, Meissen stoneware owl by Esser. Absolutely fantastic birds!
Best!
W~
HI Bill
Just taking breath!! Allach is so costly these days, but the upcoming HH auction has some nice pieces, and I am awaiting an Ebay purchase of a Lamb and a Rabbit so will post shortly.
Another amazing work of art.Very beautiful.
I love the facial expression,talons,and finish.
What is the approximate size?
BTW I'm still recovering from the shock of seeing your deco panther.
T,
Looking forward to your new additions.
Dean, This big fella is about 15-16 inches tall.
This'd be a great addition to anyone's porcelain collection.
I found anonther Deco-era panther on the net, this one also by Esser. This cat's a bit more round and plump but still very, very nice. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better looking cat than that first example but this one's a beauty, too.
Best!
B~
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That's a very nice piece, can you image these two puma's side by side, now that's something to aim for.
Thanks for posting this beautiful model
Gary
Bill,
Gosh! The owl is increditable. Thanks for keeping this thread a live. I feel a lot more comfortable over here and hope I'm still welcome.
Mikee,
Still welcome? ... are you kidding?
I always look forward to your comments and feedback with much gusto!! Your knowledge and keen insights are very much appreciated.
ha, I'm enjoying the fact that you guys are enjoying this as much as I am ...
... a little bird told me that we might be getting a good look at a lovely pair of Allach foxes in the not-too-distant
future ..??
Best!
Bilhelm
Gents,
Got this great postcard from a good collector friend in California, never saw another like it before and thought you'd enjoy it too.
Wehrmachtsausstellung in der Staatsgalerie München - vom 17. Dezember 1941 bis 15. Juni 1942. "Vom Musketier zum Feldmarschall."
Armed Forces Exhibit in Munich. "From Musketeer to Field Marshal."
A display case of historical German uniforms by
Nymphenburger Porzellanmanufaktur.
I've never seen any of these good size figurines for sale, have any of you seen them before, maybe if you follow Hermann Historica? I wonder who originally sculpted them? It'd also be great to see some good color photos of the painting details. I'll bet they're fairly good, eh?
Tristan or Gary, I know you boys check their stuff out, do these ring a bell by any chance?
Best!
B~
Bill
You rarely see anything other than Allach on Hermans site, I need to look back on a few more auctions to see what else they might have sold.
A super picture.
Gary
Bill...I haven't seen any of these fellows before, but are they Nymphenburg rather than Allach?
Allach did do some Historical soldier figures and this scan is from Ebay (A Zieten-Husar von 1756), apparantly a Karner piece, and very similar in style and finish to your guys.
G & T,
Thanks for your input guys.
I did some checking in the meanwhile and found a little more that I wanted to share...
T - yes, strictly Nymphenburg, the boys in that huge case. Bob Johnston had three figures for sale on his website some long time ago, but the listings are still there. I phoned to ask him if I could borrow his images for the thread and he graciously agreed. I chose three that we can all check out and draw our individual conclusions from...
Personally, I think the Allach Zeiten figure you just posted above is very much superior to any of the Nymphenburg examples we'll see. It looks as though Kärner literally poured his heart and soul into his Allach works, I think it's especially noticeable in his mounted figures and the large deer series, as well as many others. I mean Friederich der Grosse is simply profound!
Nevertheless, the Nymphenburg pieces are very, very good and nothing to sneeze at. They look to be anywhere from 11-14 inches tall or thereabouts? Nice detail, great decorative paint work and poses, though, compared to the Allach it seems to just miss the grade. That doesn't mean the right figure wouldn't spice up anyone's display, especially at a fair price!
Here for your perusal, three more of the "ancients..."
Best!
B~
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3/3
Well researched, Bill!
I agree that they do lack the detail of Allach figures.
Attached is a page from an Allach article in 'Militaria' showing very similar 17th Century soldiers.
The one on the left could be the brother of your first image!
Does your friend sell items...if so,could you give me your friend's web site.
Sorry, I should have added that they are, I think, by Richard Forster and not Karner.
Tristan,
Thanks for additional info, much appreciated.
That fellow on the left looks like a member of a Guard's regiment? I wouldn't mind that one standing in my room gathering dust!
Bob gets mixed reviews, some good some bad. If you know what you're looking at you shouldn't have any problems. He has some outstanding rare items and is very knowledgeable, too. He can be a bit outspoken at times but don't ever let that throw you ... if you don't pull his chain he'll treat you fair and square. A might expensive but you never know what you'll find there ..? I'd to look through several of the reference books he has.
Good hunting!
Bill
ps ... heh, almost forgot -
http://germaniainternational.com
Thanks, Bill. Quite a site!
I think Bob's site is very well pesented and his write ups give you some great insight.He's always been a pleasure to talk and deal with.JMO
Dean,
I find Bob's site interesting and nicely presented, too ... lots of great eye-candy and good details. He knows his German history.
I was going through some old photo-files and found this fine old Böttger Steinzeug example of two "keets." The birds were sculpted by the artist, A. Caasmann, for Meissen. This is the only time I've ever seen this pair of budgies that was for sale, so I'm guessing it's fairly rare? Either way, enjoy ...
Best!
Bill
A little bird tells me that there is a new Allach fox to show.
Gary
2
Pictured with his brothers.
He's the only one not eating but I think he's heard something and his dinner is not far away.
Gary,
These two Kärner models have to be among the finest fox sculptures that exist ...
that is, at least to my eye!
Who besides the good Professor could bring such a great amount of detail and life to his subjects? The man had an uncanny knack for understanding his subject matter inside and out, the earmark of a true master.
I've mentioned this before but I think it's worth repeating here, Kärner was just so consistent, like hitting a homerun everytime he was at bat. No wonder why everyone is collecting his work these days, he really is
that good! Hope he gets himself a nice, fat grouse ...
and thanks for letting us have a look at your lovely trio of foxes.
Best!
Bill
Nice additions to the collection!
WOW!
Amazing stuff being shown here. Thank you.
John
I hope those new foxes don't get ideas about my new lamb!
T,
Outstanding choice!
The muscle detail throughout the body and especially the legs is really something to marvel at - I think Gary's foxes would be most interested in gnawing on those tasty-looking legs..?
Time for a new case yet?
Best!
Bill
That would make a tasty morsel, very nice indeed.
A lovely model, well done
Gary
Thanks, guys.
Yes, indeed, Bill the case is now too small and some of the more mature animals have been put out to pasture!
Gary...have you sen the coloured fox on Dennis Porrel's site?
Hi Tristan
Yes I saw that piece, very nice and very expensive, I'm hooked on the white stuff at the moment.
Gary
Coming to the UK to a place
near you soon
Seiler (Yank in UK)
Gentlemen,
Here's a porcelain animal you don't get to see too often, a 1938 Rosenthal Chamois (Gamsbock) by Karl Himmelstoss. Model 1692, in a semi-matte glaze with a 1939, company marking. Sculpted at approximately 10.25 high, 7.5 long, 3.5 deep, this alpine goat-antelope species has long been prized by European hunters for its tasty meat. The characteristic black, solid horns have been used over the years to produce decorative items, including amusing coat-hooks, figures, festive jewelry as well as some exceptional grips for older, lightweight hunting knives known as Nickmesser, or skinning knives.
Herr Himmelstoss fashioned a naturalistic rock base to mount his subject on, a fitting choice since these animals inhabit the high mountainous regions throughout the European continent, Asia minor as well as New Zealand. This mountain-dweller is accurately portrayed with its distinctive pulled-back horns and is easily recognized. The sculptor also correctly captured the goat's unique body shape and stance which is quite different from that of its deer relatives. Lots of good overall detail to the animal's fur and coat throughout the body and the line and intricate structure of the legs is peerless. The culmination of all these qualities yielded a nice portrait of this very beautiful animal ...
Good hunting to all,
Best!
B~
2/4
3/4
... see for yourselves ...
Bill:
You never cease to amaze!
Beautiful.
John
Yes, Bill, you always come up with different and exciting pieces of knowledge!
Bill,
Another very nice addition to your collection,we can see from your last picture just how good a study this piece is, I'm looking forward to seeing this one first hand very soon.
Gary
Bill,
Another very nice piece for your collection and what a joy it is! I always try to emulate your superb photo skills but for some reason I always fall short no matter what I try.
Here's an interesting comparison on which I would welcome some feedback.
I already have a White Rohring Allach Rearing Horse and have just picked up a Non-Allach Coloured Rearing Horse by Rohring, model 88 and 881. The seller mentioned Eschenbach or Royal Dux as possibilities. Any thoughts?
The horses are very similar - pose, manes, hooves. But the detail on the face is quite different, as is the bottom of the tail. Why shold that be?
The Allach piece is far superior in its finish.
The underneath of the base has the same octagon shape, but blank with of course no runes!
2
3
4
5
T,
Will have to think about this one for a while...
be back soon.
B~
Tristan,
I'm glad you chose to post these two nice horses by Adolf Röhring, this pattern can be very tricky and is well worth reviewing for novice and expert alike. The artist first sculpted this horse figure for Allach, Steigendes Pferd - Nr. 95. After the end of WWII, many of the Allach original molds went to two factories, Eschenbach and Nymphenburg.
Any number other than 95 should be considered to be an original, postwar Eschenbach, not meant to fool or mislead anyone. We only fool ourselves when we aren't aware of this fact, no matter should anyone say otherwise, so please be careful with this particular model - porcelain collectors, look before you leap!
As to why the two models differ somewhat in form, I would have to say that certain parts of the molds were worn out and replaced with certain sections, though, that's speculation on my part. Who could say for certain unless they were actually there at the time?
It would be great to see both bases and all the markings as clearly as possible, if you get a chance, please?
Thanks for adding this T, hope someone else might chime in here too.
Best regards!
Bill
Gents,
I'm delighted to announce the arrival of two new animals to the confines of "Zoo Warda..."
A handsome postwar Roebuck by Gerhard Bochmann for Kaiser - Alka Kunst, and a scarce Rosenthal, Italian Grayhound by Professor Kärner, marked 1929. Though both are excellent studies, it's easy to see why Herr Kärner was chosen to sculpt for Allach ...
Best!
Bill
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3/3
Bill:
You never cease to amaze.
Congratulations... love the greyhound.
John
John,
Appreciate your kind words, thanks.
How about you, any new bayonets or squirrels?
Got your eye on anything nice? Hope so ..
Best!
B~
Bill, thanks for the Rearing Horse comments. I bought the coloured one just as an example of Rohrings work, and to complement the Allach piece. The price was 1/10 of what I paid for the Allach!
Also, do like the greyhound!!
Tristan,
The price difference between Allach and "normal" high quality porcelain can literally stagger the average collector. I guess the term sticker-shock is quite apropos?
What I'd like to point out here is the fact that if the average collector does a modicum of homework and a bit of searching, some very lovely things can be found for a fraction of the cost of Allach. Case in point, your two stallion figures ...
If you study the work of a particular porcelain artist and familiarize yourself with his style, etc., there are some exceptional bargains to be found from time to time.
For those who'd like to add a piece of porcelain to accent their collection but just can't afford to shell out for Allach, this is precisely the route to follow. Choose any Allach sculptor and research his working history. Find out where he worked prior to serving on the Reichsheini's staff and take a look at his earlier works. You'll be amazed at just how good some of these fellows were, long before 1935-1945. As Tristan points out, some of these can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of NS porcelain. Truer words could'nt be spoken.
I recently found an unmarked Kärner dog sculpture for a very reasonable price simply because the word "Kärner" wasn't included in the search-description. Nice!
Always wanted a decent polar bear for my collection and settled on this Danish sculpture by Niels Nielson. Difficult to capture all the detail of the subtle shades of paint in the highlights and shadow areas. Please enjoy.
I wish you all the best of collecting this summer, get out there and find something!
Bill
Bill:
I will have a couple or three pictures heading your way soon. Thanks for asking.
And, I can surely swear to how accurate Bill is in his note re the pricing of awesome items vs awesome Allach items. Case in point are my squirrels... the Allach sells for 4-5 times what the other makers go for, and the aesthetics and feel and workmanship are just as good.
That being said, if an Allach item comes my way, I would jump on it.
John
John
What sort of Allach are you after.
Bill, Lovely polar Bear and I'm with everybody else, the greyhound is super.
Gary
Gary:
I am in the hunt for a coloured Allach squirrel. I have the white one and would love to have its darker buddy.
John
John,
Gary's got a keen sense for ferreting things out, don't be surprised if he turns up the painted version for you ...
Here's the unmarked boxer by Kärner that I mentioned earlier, Rosenthal Model 1151. If you take a look at the belly area where one would normally find the artist's name to be impressed,
you'll notice there are hardly any flat open surfaces to place it. I wonder if all of the
1151's were like this? I've seen the painted version several times but never took notice before ... unusual to find unmarked Rosenthal examples by the Professor.
I know the decorated version is very popular among collectors, this is the first all-white example I've seen in a good, long while.
Bill
YOu can tell the power in his rear legs, even from the porcelain!! Very nice, Bill.
Bill
I've only ever seen the painted version of this piece, a nice doggy for sure.
Here's something I picked up some time back, Herr Kärner at his finest.
Gary
2
Gary,
This has to be one of the finest porcelain Hirsch figures out there today. Once in a while a super-fine painted version shows up on auction sites, those with excellent paint jobs get lots of attention ...
I think Mike W. posted one earlier in this thread which is quite a gem.
I think John Z. just picked up a nice all-white example of this pattern, too, nicht?
Beautiful animal.
B~
Franz Nagy Allach foxterrier, pattern # 105, been looking for a mint conditioned piece for quite sometime.
Gary
2
The trio of Allach Foxterrier's
Gary
Gary,
I'm glad to see you finally got the third pooch to this superb Allach set, this is a very fine trio.
There's almost a tangible life-force inside these sculptures, each one captures and conveys that bright, attentive look of a fox terrier - smart, clever little dogs.
A friend of mine recently mentioned to me, "Its just amazing how a person can turn a lump of clay into an almost living thing..." I agree completely.
There's a world of difference that seperates the work of an artisan or craftsperson from the true artist. Sculptors like Kaerner and Nagy, and those others who could impart that certain "life-spark" into their creations, they were true masters.
I think we're very lucky to get to collect and share small treasures like these with the forum, many thanks.
They really do make for excellent company in one's study, Rustkammer, or otherwise Fortress of Solitude ...
Nice find mate, your Allach collection is coming along right nicely, good job!
W~
Gary:
Do you collect all Allach or only those that are hunting and forestry themed?
Beautiful trio and a great adjunct to your impressive dagger collection.
BTW, I know how that is... my squirrels are running away from me and getting a life of their own (and thank you, Bill, for pointing me into this direction).
John
John
Purely those with a hunting/forestry theme,apart from the two stags I tend to stick to the smaller models, I have no interest at all in the large dashound or german shepherd, they just seem a little out of place to me.
Thanks
Gary
All I can say is WWWWWWOOOOOOWWWW!
John
John,
That sums it up nicely ...
Gary - I remember the first piece of Allach that you bought, it's now grown into a first class collection... wow! That's a really nice display, lovely.
Here's an early Hutschenreuther raven or crow, done about 1908-1909. The bird isn't signed or doesn't have a model number, but I believe this was sculpted by Fritz Klee.
He was one of the top-dogs at the firm and went on to teach at the company's porcelain fine-art school somewhere around 1910? A lot of the animals he sculpted were done in white porcelain that had gilded, highlighted decorations. Some of the owls and a few others are a bit funky for my tastes, but he designed and produced several sublime animal figures. I think one either likes his early Art Deco style or not ... there's almost no middle ground with his approach, sort of a "love-hate" relationship ...
They say he was also very influential in changing the entire industry with his well thought-out plans and innovations.
I must admit I find this little guy interesting and pleasing to my eye but, I'd love to hear your honest comments - good, bad or indifferent.
Hope everybody has a nice collectible or two lined-up in their sights for the summer months ahead ...
Best regards!
B~
2/2
Bill:
The chrome dome bird just doesn't do anythng for me... unlike the stags and the four legged creatures we are seeing here.
John
I don't know squat about porcelain but do love Art deco styling so I'd give this bird a thumbs up for that reason as well as being somewhat unique and out of the ordinary.
Plus he seems to be well done detail wise with just the right amount of deco style to keep it looking realistic.
I imagine it would be very tough to create a work that would combine this type of styling and realism.
The gold beak,eyes,and decorative band along the base really adds to the deco vs realism look IMO.
Should display very well with your to die for deco panther too.
Personally I like the gold accents, I also like the feathering to the wings and the impressive chest area. It wouldn't be something I'd add to my collection but can agree with Dean that he is an impressive addition to the already superb collection.
Gary
Bill,
I think it's a great unique piece and certainly not an easy one to make.
Gary,
Nice collection,very impressive to say the least and thanks for showing it. I have the painted version of the Dam Hirsch and if interested I'll gladly take a picture and post it. Thanks.
Bill, a cute bird but he looks in a right bad mood!
Here is a Meissen letter opener, about 11 inches in lenghth and with a bisque blade. I'm not sure of the period and any help would be appreciated.
The logo on the hilt.
Tristan, I think it was made during 1934 - 1947. Jim
Gentlemen,
It's good to see everyone's staying busy, thanks for the latest additions and insightful comments about the bird. I really appreciate you all taking time to answer, I value every one of your comments. I also consider each of you to be true gentlemen, collectors and tops in your individual areas of interest. I've come to know parts of your collections over the years through your own posts, comments and private correspondence and they are always insightful, honest and intelligent. Sincere thanks for that my friends ...
... and now, onwards and upwards ... Mikee, yes - please do post the colored Damhirsch, one of my favorite Kärner pieces.
Tristan, very cool opener, one can easily see the appeal. This might provide a great contrast alongside some of your wonderful animal pieces -those flowing natural lines and curves against the hard definition of the blade outline. I think that might work..? The shape somehow reminds me of an early Heer dagger, though, decorated with a Delft-blue painted grip, very nice!
Jim, thanks for your help with the marking, I have a lot more studying to do when it comes to the crossed-swords logos. Anything new in your neck o' the woods? I think I can speak here for everyone, it'd sure be great to see another piece from your collection, when and if you get a chance, please?
I recently added this big ol' fella to my collection, another large, oversized stag-beetle. This example is by the Bohemian/Czech company, Royal Dux, and the single figure is even slightly larger in scale than the fighting pair I have by Galluba & Hoffmann. At approximately 8 inches long he makes for an imposing presence crawling around on one's desktop ...
All the best!
Bill
Ps almost forgot ... I'll post a great bug-related topic to the Graphics thread if interested ..?
2/2
Thanks, Bill. In my impetuous youth I was a dagger collector and that is part of the reason I bought this piece; that, and the exorbitant prices of any Allach!
Knowing your admiration of that Kaerner fellow if you are not aware of an upcoming German auction, I thought you might like to see a couple of bronze examples of his that are coming up for sale later this month; appararntly these are from "the estate of the niece of the famous artist"
That was the "SS Flag Bearer"...this is "The Pilot"
...and of course the "Fencer" (in bisque porcelain)
Tristan, Nice porcellain knife. There are so many of that type mark, so fo me I really cant say. That sort of thing really takes an expertise in that field.
Bill,
Always interested in anything you have to post, always a delight amigo.
I like that beetle and the contrast and blending of colors is really something.
Bill, unfortunately I have a big porcelian collection but it covers all of Europe including Russia. Here is another Meissen piece, which I can't date as they put an initial and number over the top. I call it the "Little Hunter", he is 3 1/8" (82mm)tall. For those who are into porcelian and needing to identify the marks, one of the best books I have found for Germany is "Marks on German, Bohemian and Austrian Porcelian 1710 to present" by Robert E. Rontgen (the "o" has two dots above it).
Tristan,
Thanks for the shots of the Kärner auction pieces, now if only I could win the lottery, heh ... owning any one of these examples really would be "hitting the jackpot!" One can easily see why the Professor is becoming so popular with all-kinds of collectors these days. These examples are what dreams are made of - my dreams!
Jim,
Do my eyes deceive or is that little fellow sporting a beetle-like exoskeleton? I know that early Germanic tribes wore wolf, bear and deer skins in this fashion, but that looks like a Hirschkäfer-mantle to me. I think that this could be in keeping with the many Puttis or cherubic figurines that were created in porcelain over the years? Some were most unusual in subject matter - children riding sea-monsters or other exotic beasts, potraying historical characters, etc... I think your early piece falls into line there? I'd love to know the story behind this little imp, would Meissen be able to identify it for you? They must have a department that does this sort of thing, no? Could it possibly be an original Bustelli?
Please feel free to post anything you wish, whether French, Russian or any others, we're all willing to look and learn. If it's interesting to you it will most likely fascinate us, too. Those have to be among the prettiest markings I've ever seen ... very sophisticated and elegant.
Many thanks to all of our regular contributors and guests, best to all ...
Bill
BIll, I never thought of the skin, but now you mention it, it does appear to be beatle. Yes, Meissen does have a department that IDs stuff as I have used them before (Hawk and Dove statue posted earlier) and another piece which they say they didn't make but has their mark. Jim
As mainly a collector of blades and guns, I do not have anything like what you guys are showing in my collection. These are truly a work of art and I can hardly wait for the next thread to see what is coming up. Thanks so much for showing and the education that goes with each piece is tremendous. Job well done. James
I have a few more pieces that are figurines. The first is a Spanish Danish by Royal Dux Deutschland. She is 14" (355mm) tall and dates from around 1920 or later (before the war).
Next is a Hungarian Hassar, made by the Herrend porcelain company in Hungary. He dates from about 1970 and is 16" (451mm) tall. On his pouch you will see the Herrend stamp as well as on the base of the statue.
Bill, here is the backside of the hunter.
Another Herren piece, this one also dates from the 70's. A Hassar slaying a dragon. The Herren dhield is on his hat this time. He stands 8 1/2" (215mm) tall.
Semi-nude Dancer made in 1964 by the VEB Wallendorf Porcelian Factory. She is 9" (229mm) tall.
This is the last of my figurines.
Jim,
A great variety of goodies, each very nice in its own unique way. I think that's very neat how they painted their logo into piece, very clever!
You have to appreciate the two lovely ladies. Both are great snapshots into the past - the style of dress and on like that ... and, they're both very good-looking women, which is always nice to look at!
I like the two military figures but my favorite is the "bug-boy." I'll bet my eye-teeth that was meant to be a bug jacket ..!
I've always liked unusual pieces and that one really does it for me.
Best!
Bill
Bill
I wrote Meissen and here is their answer:
"MEISSEN in 1900 by August Ringler (1837-1918). Its title is "Amor, als Hirschkäfer verkleidet" (Amor as a stag-beetle). It was probably produced around 1900-1924".
Jim
Jim,
Many thanks for checking on that and letting us
know. That is definitely one exceptional figure!
Danke!
Bill
"Ein fennec for your thoughts ..." (sounds like Pfennig) ... please excuse my feeble attempt at a very miserable pun ...
Also known in German as ein Wüstenfuchs, or desert fox. Robert Ullmann sculpted this unusual little fellow around 1951, for Augarten, Wien.
Best to all !
Bill
2/3
3/3
If I was to waiver from my sphere of collecting this piece would be the reason for doing so, I defy anybody not to like this model for some reason or other, how can you not enjoy looking at this piece.
Breathtaking.
Gary
By the way, for those who don't know what Bill looks like, check out his 3rd picture, a lot of similarities.
Bill,
That's one I haven't seen in sometime. Could've been from a different maker though, but still love it!
Gary,
The similarities are just uncanny. Bill's long ears,sharp eyes and keen sense of smell has served him well.
I'm with you Mikee, but the whiskers have it for me.
Gary
Jim,
I forgot to add,you have a very impressive collection and always a pleasure to see.
Here's a quick picture of the painted Damhirsch. Thanks
Mikee-
You sure know how to set up a impressive display.
Mikee,
Now those two make for a really lovely pair, isn't the doe a Kärner piece by Rosenthal, too? As Dean mentioned, that's an outstanding display, so many great things to see all in one spot! That's a Rosenthal porcelain plaque by Willi Exner, of "der Dicke," nicht? I like the Göring portrait even better than the Hitler counterpart, though, both are top-shelf and always in demand.
You're right about there being different versions of the fennec - several in fact... a pair that was first done for Meissen by Otto Pilz, in 1906, and another single, more stylized version by Margot Flinsch (or Flintsch) for Rosenthal in 1926, and the model shown above by Ullmann. As an interesting aside, I have a reference that shows another fox that is a dead-ringer for the Ullmann version, however, attributed to Karin Jarl, sculpted in 1926. Maybe the book is incorrect? I'll have to check into it a little more ...
... in the meantime fellas, gotta go groom my whiskers ...
Best!
Bill
This Ram is from Russia and made by Ziel. It is 10" long X 8 1/2" high.
I am amazed at the figurines that everyone has posted. Most of them are simply stunning. Jim
Made mistake in spelling company name it is Gzhel.
Jim,
This has to be one of the nicest wild goat sculptures that I've seen to date - a beautiful ibex and a very difficult animal to find in porcelain that's well portrayed.
Super detail to the anatomy, an excellent pose and a first-rate, very natural, painted decoration - they don't come much better than that! This is one of those models that's classy enough to compliment a collection of any kind, especially if you're into fine animal artwork. Exceptional piece, definitely a keeper!
Thanks for the nice snaps ...
Bill
Ps - if you ever want to trade out of this unit for another animal of equal value, I'm absolutely your man...
Very nice porcelain's shown here by Mikee and Jim, the Damhirsch in white is on my list along with the large bellowing stag.
Gary
Dean, Gary
Thanks for the compliment much appreciated.
Jim,
Love porcelain animals and paintings. Another amazing piece and thanks for taking the time to show it.
Bill,
Thank you for the compliment as well and you are correct on all accounts as always. The Doe is a nice Karner piece and as you stated the Goring plaque was made by Rosenthal from the original painting by Willi Exner. Mine still has the period picture frame not seen often which is a real plus to have. The Goring plaques I've seen are unsigned unlike the AH plaques which are signed, the reason unknown to me, but wonder if the original painting of Goring is signed? Maybe Rosenthal missed it in the process for some reason. It's also a shame to find them with the paper backing torn off as well but understand the reason for it and more than likely is done to insure authenticity of the piece by visually checking the marks with a dose of curiosity of something possibly hidden.
I would think the demand for AH plaques considerable compared to the Goring plaques. I'm unsure of how many were made,destroyed and or kept,so can't say if one is rarer than the other, but I think it's safe to say both are probably scarce.
I fully agree Bill, The Goring plaque is by far a much better rendered piece than the AH plaque. Thanks again.
Here is the Ibex in their natural settings, the mountains of Kyrgyzstan. I lived and worked in Bishkek for four years. I hiked the mountains year round and it wasn't until my fourth year that I finally got to see an Ibex. Jim
Greetings, all. I'm a relative newbie to the whole German porcelain scene, having only really started collecting about three or four years ago, and only participating in one other forum with a section devoted to the art.
However, thanks to Bill (WWII), I have registered to this forum in the hopes of finding another place to congregate with fellow enthusiasts. I spent some time perusing this entire thread and I admit I am stunned at the exceptional quality and variety of pieces posted here.
I can only hope that in the future I will have the good fortune to add such magnificent works to my humble collection as well.
Regards,
T.
I previously posted these photos on another board.
This is a terracotta ceramic bust of the Bamberger Reiter, made by the German company Hertwig Katzhutte, probably in the 1930's. This statue, part of a larger medieval equestrian stone sculpture that resides in the Bamberg Cathedral, was allegedly a big influence on Himmler and the Nazis because of its Aryan features. They also thought the figure might represent an early Germanic king. It measures about 13 inches tall.
T.
T,
A very hearty welcome to the forum, it's a pleasure having you join us!
The Reiter that you've posted is simply spectacular, I'm sure our regular contributors will agree. Besides the pleasing red-brown color there's something about figures made from Böttger Steinzeug that makes them so appealing to the eye. This bust has to be one of the most impressive clay figures that ever went into production and must be very hard to find in this good condition. A joy to behold.
Congratulations on finding such a wonderful piece and letting us take a look. I'm already looking forward to your next post and hope you will enjoy being with us.
Best!
Bill
Tiberius
Welcome to the forum, a very attractive bust, I look forward to seeing more of your collection.
Gary
Tiberius,
Welcome,and hope to see more of your collection!
Greetings All,
Very interesting to see your
Reiter bust, Tiberius. As I have a similar piece, I thought I would post it here for review.
The photos are somewhat poorly lit, but one can see that the color is a matte finished umber, not a genuine terracotta hue. I am of the opinion that my version is a modern reproduction. Any and all feedback is welcome.
Best Regards
*Here is a close up of the makers mark, located on the reverse of my bust. It says Karlsruhe.
Thank you, gentlemen, for the warm welcome.
Albrecht, I think your Reiter bust dates to about mid-century, possibly 1940's. I have a hefty stylized glazed red clay horse from the same company with that mark that is from about the 1950's, very retro. I think I've seen some terracotta hunting dogs by the company at auction before. If you look up Karlsruhe on the internet, you'll probably bump into some other pieces.
I notice that your bust has the signature elongated neck of the Reiter, whereas on my piece they seem to have shortened the neck a bit for whatever reason.
Fun comparison!
T.
My particular area of specialization in porcelain collecting is vintage and antique horses. I just did an overhaul of the arrangement of my main display shelf the other day and took some photos. Here is one shelf featuring some of my favorite German pieces.
From left to right, they are:
Back row - Rosenthal large white stallion by Legat, Hertwig large mare and foal, Goebel rearing stallion by Bochmann.
Front row - Rosenthal 'Mohammed' horse by Karner, Kaiser kicking donkey by Bochmann, Hutschenreuther donkey foal by Tutter, Nymphenburg Chamois (one of my latest acquisitions and a total showstopper!), and Hertwig mare and foal.
Enjoy!
T.
Those Reiter bust are sweet.Thanks for posting them.
Tiberius, that kicking mule is a beauty and it stands out as my favorite in your photo.
Tiberius
Wonderful collection of horses, some great models there, I'm a white porcelain freak so the two stallions to the left are the one's that stands out for me, these are such noble beasts and yours show this trait to a tee.
Gary
Dean and Gary, thanks for your kind comments! I happen to have larger photos of the pieces you pointed out, so here goes:
That's a Hutschenreuther rearing foal next to the donkey. Also one of my favorites.
T.
Albrecht, Tiberius, et, al,
Good to see you both here, alive and well and graciously contributing to our porcelain/sculpture thread, danke!
Albrecht's additional Bamberger Reiter bust is interesting to see, what a pair those two would make! There are quite a few variations on the mounted figurines, too. The large model is always a popular collectible at auction and normally fetches top-dollar. Funny that there's so much debate over who the rider actually is ... though, whoever he might be, the porcelains are exquisite.
T - great job on your horse collection, you've got some very fine pieces there. I saw a great early Rosenthal rearing stallion recently, by our old friend Theo Kärner. It was an enormous, most impressive sculpture, easily dwarfing the large models he produced for Allach. First of its type in all-white I've seen and I was very tempted to buy it, but I couldn't figure out a fail-safe method to get it home. The only way would have been to hold it on my lap for eight hours or have a pro pack it and mailed. Never saw it in the books or catalogs, but a stunning beauty nevertheless! Keep an eye peeled, it would bowl you over ... I believe the same large, painted Rosenthal model just came up for grabs on eBay, as we speak...
My latest catch is a young Indian elephant (male) by Nymphenburg, 1916.
I first saw this wrinkly bugger during my recent trip to Germany, in the lovely city of Munich. He was sitting in a pawn shop window next to a very large rearing stallion also by Prof. Kärner - both were way-overpriced, but nevertheless gems. It took all my willpower to resist, but my better judgement finally won out, heh ... one in a row for me. I went home with my hard-earned dough still in pocket...
To my pleasant surprise, a couple of weeks later I saw a German dealer in Berlin had the exact same "Elefant" on his website, in perfect shape, so I made him an offer. Hot ziggedy ... we completed the deal for about one-third of what I almost shelled out for it - sometimes you just catch a lucky break...
Best!
Bill
Friends,
Looking forward to hearing from some of our old crew, any new additions over the summer?
Here's a pair of Meissen Steinzeug "wabbits..." I had the smaller Deco-looking fella for a while but recently added the hare sitting up on his haunches. Hope you might enjoy them.
Good hunting!
Bill
Nice incredible stuff as usual Bill.The works on this thread with their life like detailing are stunning and the skills these artist must of had is amazing.
Is the cast iron colored finish on the large rabbit a rare type of finish?
Impressive thread to say the least.
Great rabbits, Bill! I've always wanted a horse in the bottger redware but they're far between and pricy to boot. Thanks for your kind comments on my horse collection. I did see the fabulous huge Rosenthal 'High Spirits' Karner, but alas, far out of a grad student's budgetary means.
However, I did pick up a wonderful piece last weekend that I will be sharing here soon. Not a horse, but exquisite nonetheless.
Keep on sharing these beautiful figurines, gents!
T.
Alright, got around to photographing the piece I mentioned yesterday. The person i bought it from had a hard time parting with it; and I can hardly blame him!
A very nice high quality Rosenthal painted porcelain plaque, featuring St. Jerome, painted by Einsiedler von S. Koninck. It's in a gorgeous gilt and wood frame and measures 15 x 17 inches overall.
I'm not entirely sure when this was made or how many were produced. Does anyone have any ideas? Thank you!
T.
Dean,
The story behind the stoneware is a most interesting glimpse into European life on the continent during the early 1700's.
Here's a quick but colorful description of the origin of 'Steinzeug' in Germany ...
Alchemy Chemistry, Porcelain and Bottger
By: Laura Evans
Those practicing alchemy chemistry during the 17th and 18th Centuries were frequently imprisoned to either keep them working or keep them from sharing "secrets" and, if the going got really tough, were hung for their failures. Young Johann Friedrich Böttger was exactly in this position in the early 1700's.
Europeans Greedy for the Secret
Ever since porcelain arrived in Europe from China, Europeans struggled to replicate the recipe for making this fine ceramic and failed. China closely guarded the secret. Augustus the Strong, the Elector of Saxony and King of Poland, was one of the wealthy Europeans who collected porcelain at a feverish pace. Augustus the Strong wanted porcelain and wanted money.
Johann Böttger had a classic alchemist's education. His abilities were well known enough that when the King of Prussia summoned him, Böttger bolted to Saxony to stay out of harm's way. Unfortunately, Augustus the Strong also knew about Böttger's abilities, captured him, and put him under guard. Böttger struggled to change metal into gold and, of course, failed.
Böttger teams with Tschirmhaus
Fortunately for Böttger, Ehrenfried Walther von Tschirmhaus, a noted physicist and mathematician, was also in the King's service. Tschirmhaus had been working for years to find the formula for porcelain. Böttger joined Tshcirmhaus in working on the project. Böttger was on the road to success when he produced the hard red stoneware that bears his name, Boettger porcelain. Unfortunately, Tschirmhaus died in 1708, one year before Böttger put together the puzzle and produced real porcelain. This did not end Böttger's woes. Augustus the Strong still wanted gold and also wanted to prevent anyone else from getting the formula for porcelain.
In 1710, the Meissen factory opened under Augustus' patronage to produce commercial porcelain. In 1713, Meissen offered European porcelain for sale for the first time. And what about Böttger? While Böttger was a free man when he died at the age of 37 in 1719, he died a penniless alcoholic.
Pretty wild story, eh?
Tiberius,
It looks as though you've found another incredible piece for your growing collection, I admire your good taste. The piece is titled, 'Einsiedler,' which can mean monk or hermit or convey the message of deep-thinker, which St. Jerome certainly was. I believe the 'von S. Koninck,' means after an original painting by Koninck, who lived from 1609-1659.
I can't give you a production date as I don't have enough experience with those lovely markings found on the plaques and other limited-edition series. Professor Fritz Klee of the Hutschenreuther Kunst Abteilung also had some exquisite markings on the bottoms of his pieces, too. Let us know if you get some more info on this, please?
Can't wait to see your next acquisition, much good luck!
Here's one of my recent finds, a big ol' fatso Javan Rhino by Meissen. I'm not certain of the age of this unit either, but I think it's safe to say he's at least around a hundred and twenty-five years old, from the marks - hope we look this good at that age too.
Best!
Bill
Thanks, Bill, for your insight into translating the markings on the plaque! Also, thank you for your kind comments. I will certainly be sure to post whatever info I can get about the piece.
That's a great story about the history of Meissen and Bottger. Porcelain is so commonplace today one would never think that at one time it was so precious.
Your Rhino is awesome, top notch as usual. The fishscales on his legs are an interesting touch though lol.
Regards,
T.
T,
You're more than welcome!
A fairly good size lion by another personal favorite, Max Esser. Max's works are more Deco in form than Kärner's ultra-realistic style, with a heavy dose of Romantic-era flair thrown in for good measure. If you'd like to see some more of his outstanding work try a google search and click on the photos option ...
Löwe - (Lion) 1927 -28.
ahh yes, one more quick observation ... for those that say GDC is strictly a "dagger/edged weapon-oriented" forum, well, maybe you're right..? Have therefore added a photo including another of Bazs' delightful F. Dula models ...
Wishing all of you "simply the best" in collecting!
B~
2/2
Willi:
You take my breathe away.
John
I love looking at this thread, hopefully within the next couple weeks I can add something new.
Thanks to everybody for showing all this lovely art.
Gary
Bill,
Holy crap that's a fine make of a lion! Love the deers, elephant, and horses and all, but that lion is unreal! Thanks for showing it! Has great detail as the great sculpture the Lion of Lucerne has, which if you've never went to see it you should, it's an awesome sight and an experience you will not soon forget.
Mikee,
Agreed, the Swiss lion is a powerful, stunning monument. Mark Twain described the sculpture of the mortally wounded lion as,
"the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world."
There's no doubt that Europe's the best place to visit if you appreciate fine animal sculptures, no matter what medium one prefers - stone, bronze, wood - fine and/or decorative arts, so many wonderful, pre-1945 European animal sculptors out there to discover and enjoy, from all the various nations.
Löwendenkmal 1820-21
Moving away from animals, I managed to pick up an early Herend item in Hungary. Dating from 1923, it pictures a Boy Scout.
I thought that the Scout motif would complement my military and semi military collection.
Here it is,
John
John,
How do you do it? All those lovely etched bayonets, edged weapons, fantastic medal groupings, etc, etc.. and you still find time to ferret out neat little porcelains and other artworks? heh .. That's some tidy aggenda, mein Herr. The little fella looks like he'll make a fine guard for your squirrels, eh?
It happens that I recently came across a piece with a fine Hungarian pedigree, too. One of Ferdinand Liebermann's unusual early pieces, a depiction of a young boy squabbling with an angry penguin over a nice, sweet, fresh crab, is aptly titled, "Brotneid," or just simply, "Jealousy."
The model first appeared on the market for Hutschenreuther in 1910, this example being produced some years later during the first-half of WWI. This one's also nicely marked with a Hungarian luxus-tax stamp and the fine war-period, Hutschenreuther company logo.
Beyond a doubt Liebermann was a prolific master-sculptor whose works are highly prized today, much like Prof. Kärner's - many animals, famous figures from the operas and tales and even some outstanding stuff for the Nazis, to include one of the more famous, lifelike and sought-after Hitler busts.
Best regards to all !
W~
John Z,
As promised and delivered on Fedex-time, for you, good mssr.,
... a most wonderful, early Kärner fox, check out this bad boy,
get on the "good-foot..!"
I think the vixen went to "Earl Scheib, King of Paintjobs ..."
An absolutely superior painting to compliment the good Professor's lively observation! Try painting something like that on your outhouse, mon dieu !!!
Best!
W~
Found one last item I'd like to share with you all ...
This is a small Nymphenburg Schopfhenne, or tufted-hen, first sculpted by August Göhring in 1926. Great, little bird!
W~
HI Bill and fellow enthusiasts. I have not added anything to the collection as I am working abroad and will be until next July, so pennies will be saved and stored for a couple of good buys next summer, so please leave some things in the shop for me!
NOt sure if I've posted this guy before, so apologies if I have, but he is so delicate and some may not have seen him.
Tristan,
Good to hear from you, hope things are good for you and the new
position?
I'm certain there will be some goodies left in the shop for you by next summer, I'm sure you're looking forward to that, too ...
In the meantime, please visit with us whenever you get some free-time, your input is always appreciated. Thanks for posting that lovely doe, no doubt a Kärner piece? His fine work on hooved animal legs is quite distinctive.
All the best!
Bill
Thanks, Bill...will do
I've seen some rubbish advertised as Allach, but surley this takes the biscuit!!
http://cgi.ebay.de/WWII-orig-German-Alla...=item1e5f7d12f6
T.,
Christ on a rickety crutch, it doesn't just take the biscuit, it takes the whole damn bakery! What a terrible piece of garbage this is, in fact so bad it deserves preserving here for posterity, that way we can remember it and have a good laugh now and then.
I hope none of our members are naive enough to get burned by a lump of poop like this? ... although, you could probably grow a nice Chia plant in it, no?
This gentleman most obviously never even peeked into a reference book and believes his own fairy-tale, or is hoping to prey on someone slightly duller than he is? If it's someone's idea of a good joke, well then, that it certainly is, ha! ... but at a starting price of $460 plus shipping, that's becoming serious and not so funny anymore... plain and simple, getting ripped off blows.
I know for certain the fellows who regularly follow this thread are pretty well-seasoned veterans, junk like this is laughable, but some poor sap might just eventually buy it?
Wasn't this thing or something just like it up for sale or auction before? Well anyway, I still think it's much better only as a joke ...
Best!
/W
here's the guy's spiel, heh ...
US$460
This item is WWII original German White Allach porcelain CAR FIGURE. Marking: T.Karner, Allach. The condition of the item is perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good grief, that car pot really is a piece of garbage, isn't it?
Anyhow, here's my two large-scale Hertwig pieces. Each measures 15" long at the base, and 10" to 10.5" tall. They're circa 1940's, Germany.
One of these days I hope to stumble across one of Hertwig's Third Reich equestrian pieces! *crosses fingers*
T.
T,
A delight to see your equine figures, especially after that miserable little 'Klimperkasten' of a vehicle, heh...
My personal favorite is/are the first pair. Just a great anatomical pose - the decoration, shading and markings on the animals is exceptional. What a nice find.
I'm hoping that some of our viewers will see that there are so many other excellent, non-Allach, German porcelain manufacturers and subjects from which to choose. Naturally, the Allach pieces are much closer related to our imperial and TR military collections, but many of us can't afford to splurge on these high-end, cultural artworks. If you can, by all means add one or two pieces of Allach to your collections, you won't regret it I assure you ... however, if that's not in the financial forecast, do check out some of the other famous old porcelain houses if you're considering adding one or two good accent pieces to your collection.
Most of these other firms were in existence long before Allach was even dreamt of - these companies were Allach's roots, deeply fastened in German culture and history. Tiberius' splendid Hertwig horse sculptures drive this point home, as well as many of the porcelains throughout this thread. Exceptional quality at fair, more reasonable prices. Who can argue with that..?
If a good piece of WWI or WWII German/Austrian sculpture sounds interesting, try a google/eBay search for some of these establishments: Rosenthal, Nymphenburg, Schaubach, Heubach, Hertwig, Wallendorf, Hutschenreuther, KPM, Schwarzburger or Augarten. At times some really amazing things show up, with a little persistance and luck you might just find something extraordinary at a very fair price.
Good hunting and collecting to all.
Best!
Bill
Thanks, Bill, for your kind words! I am glad to hear that you like the Hertwig horses.
I am definitely amongst that group that can't justify the purchase of an Allach at this time of my life, but I do hope to in the future when things are more settled.
I agree with you completely that it is very much worth investigating German firms other than top tier firms like Allach, Meissen, and Nymphenburg. Rosenthal and Hutschenreuther are two of my favorites and, as you said, have employed some of the best sculptors over the years.
Regards,
T.
Gary,
This has to be one of the finest Wildschwein/Keiler sculptures that I've ever seen, a first-rate addition to your hunting and forestry collection. The only other bronze boar figure that even comes close is the impressive, oversized monster that sits outside the Jagdmuseum in Munich.
How're you going to top this..?
...though, if anyone can do that, it's certainly you.
Best!
BF~
Gary, that is a wicked awesome boar. Such detail and expression! Absolutely top notch. Wow.
*scrutinizes* Hey, is that the Karner bronze horse head plaque that Kris had on his website not too long ago? If so? Niiiiiice.
T.
Tiberius
It is a Kärner horses head but not the one from Kris, I found mine a few months ago in Germany.
Bill
There's still so much to find out there, there seems to be some really nice bronzes and the odd piece of Allach as well, just gotta keep looking.
Gary
Beautiful piaque. Karner really did have an uncommon ability to combine realism with expressivity in his pieces - particularly the equine works. Thanks for posting that pic!
T.
I wish I had more to add, last one for me for a while, Allach rabbit just in a couple days ago.
Gary
Gary,
Great rabbit, gotta love that little snoot. I can just imagine him/her wiggling that sniffer up and down, nice.
I sent a photo of your super bronze boar to my good buddy Theo in Germany. He just got back from pig hunting with his brothers, and altogether they bagged seven. He liked the bronze very much but assured me that Wildschweine go much better with a rich, brown gravy and dumplings ... heh..
Best!
W~
Bill
That's just how I like them with lots of dumplings and loads of gravy.
Got these in a few weeks ago.
Gary
G,
A nice series of Kärner animal plates, good score. The old boy could paint as well as he sculpted, remarkable.
Here's something I picked up as a Christmas gift for a good friend. I know he won't see it here so I thought I'd share ... a Prussian, 6th Infantry Regiment officer/drummer, or King's regiment, 'die Lange Kerls.'
Regiment's History
The Regiment was founded with a strength of two battalions in 1675 as “Regiment Kurprinz” under the command of Prince Frederick of Brandenburg, the later King Frederick I of Prussia. In 1688 the later King Frederick William I of Prussia became the nominal Commander of the Regiment by his birth as his father expected him to play with his own regiment and receive some military training. After Fredrick William I ascended to the throne in 1713 he proceeded to decrease expenses of the court and strengthen his military. He let Prince Leopold of Anhalt-Dessau improve the drill and weapons of his army and hired 40,000 foreign mercenaries. He believed in harsh discipline.
He had already begun to recruit taller soldiers for it. The official name of the regiment was the 'Grand Grenadiers of Potsdam' or 'Potsdam Grenadiers' for short. However, when the number of tall soldiers increased, the regiment earned its nickname 'Potsdam Giants'. Their uniform was a red hat, blue jacket with gold trim, scarlet trousers, white stockings, and black shoes. Their weapons included muskets, white bandoleers, and daggers. The soldiers wore a hat without a brim in order to be able to throw their heavy grenades with ease.
The original required height was 6 Prussian Foot (about 6'2" or 1.88 meters)[1], well above average then and now. One of the tallest soldiers, the Irish James Kirkland, was reportedly 2.17 meters (about 7 feet)[2] in height. Another member of the regiment was Daniel Cajanus. The king — who was about 1.6 meters himself[3] — needed several hundred more recruits each year. He tried to obtain them by any means, and once confided to the French ambassador that "The most beautiful girl or woman in the world would be a matter of indifference to me, but tall soldiers--they are my weakness." He gave bonuses to fathers of tall sons and landowners who gave up their tallest farm workers to join the regiment. He recruited tall soldiers from the armies of other European countries. Foreign rulers like the Emperor of Austria, Russian Tsar Peter the Great and even the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire sent tall soldiers to him in order to encourage friendly relations. Several soldiers were given by Tsar Peter I as a gift in return for the famous Amber Room [4].
If the man was not interested in joining the regiment, the king resorted to forced recruitment and kidnapping — his agents kidnapped tall priests, monks, innkeepers, etc., from all over Europe. Once they even tried to abduct an Austrian diplomat. He even forced tall women to marry tall soldiers so they could breed more tall boys. If some regimental commander failed to inform the king of a potential tall recruit under his own command, he faced royal displeasure.
Pay was high but not all giants were content, especially if they were forcibly recruited, they attempted desertion or suicide.
The king never risked the regiment in battle as he never waged war. Some sources state that there was a military reason to create a regiment of "Long Guys" because loading a muzzleloader is easier to handle for a taller soldier. [5] Another source states that many of the men were unfit for combat due to their gigantism. [6]
The king trained and drilled his own regiment every day. He liked to paint their portraits from memory. He tried to show them to foreign visitors and dignitaries to impress them. At times he would try to cheer himself up by ordering them to march before him, even if he was in his sickbed. This procession, which included the entire regiment, was led by their mascot, a bear.
When the king died in 1740 the regiment had a strength of 3,200 men, but his successor Frederick the Great did not share his father's sentiments about the regiment, which seemed to him an unnecessary expense. The regiment was largely disbanded and most of its soldiers were integrated into other units of the Prussian Army. The regiment itself was downgraded to a battalion (Garde - Grenadier No 6) and employed during the War of the Austrian Succession at Hohenfriedberg in 1745 and at Rossbach, Leuthen, Hochkirch, Liegnitz and Torgau throughout the Seven Years War. The battalion surrendered near Erfurt and Prenzlau after the Prussian defeat at the Battle of Jena-Auerstedt in 1806 and was disbanded.
An interesting history to say the least.
The sculpture was originally produced by Rosenthal in 1934 and this example bears the '34-35 company mark, most likely from the initial run.
Best!
Bill
Bill....your knowledge, and generosity, never cease to amaze me!
Bill, that is some fascinating history! The piece itself is wonderful - great details. I am sure your friend will be very pleased with it.
Thanks for sharing!
T.
Gee, Bill, can I be your friend, too?
You are an amazing asset to this community and to this forum. Sharing your knowledge and your fantastic collection helps us all become better collectors and understand the whats and the whys of this hobby.
Vielen Dank, mein Freund,
John
Fellas,
Thanks for your unwaivering support building this thread, it's been a lot of fun and we do get to see some great pieces on a semi-regular basis ...
you guys are a great source of inspiration.
Johnnie Z,
I thought we already were budz ..??
Best!
Bill
Willie:
Budz, yes, but where not on the Christmas gift list I see.
Maybe on the 'B' list?
John
New arrival! Very flexible white horse foal. Ca. 1960's, sculpted by Gerhard Bochmann, who also worked for Goebel. Marked Alka Kunst, Bavaria. Alka is the shortened form of Alboth & Kaiser, which was the precusor to the Kaiser Porcelain company still in operation today.
T.
T,
I like Bochmann's work too, he did some fine animal sculpting,
his gazelles are top-notch.
This great little colt will fit nicely into your corral!
I've always enjoyed the subject of young animals, it's nice to see the spindly/wobbly look of the legs - Münch-Khe's young fawns are another fine example of this 'balancing-act...'
It'd probably be a bitch figuring out how to get it to stand straight and properly fixed without falling over. The four small 'touch-points' of the hooves just aren't very big.
Best!
B~
Here's one of Münch-Khe's young fawn's, the similarities are most profound.
Gary
Thanks, Bill!
I agree, Bochmann did some really fine work. He sculpted that little Kaiser kicking donkey that I have. However, I think my favorite piece he sculpted that I own is the Goebel British Royal Life Guard:
Young animals are fun, but as you said, rather delicate and breakage prone with those twiggy legs of theirs! I have other foals I may share in the future.
Baz, that fawn is great and yes, the resemblance is uncanny.
T.
T,
Nice clean lines to your Bochmann horseman, the proportions are just right. I like the fact that you've chosen to specialize in horses and equine themes, that should keep you busy for many years to come. Have you ever seen Max Esser's Pegasus figure? For me it's as impressive as Kärner's larger horse sculptures, though, in a much different Art Deco style.
Speaking of Esser ... lots of unique and distinctive animals by this artist, mainly from the years 1910 - 1945. He's slowly but surely becoming one of my favorite German Tierbildhauer, (animal-picture hewers) and stands among the true 20th century greats. He also produced some exemplary bronzes for the brownshirts during their brief stay in power. One that immediately comes to mind is a large sculpture of three eagles joined together over a world globe. I believe it was some kind of presentation for the NSFK..? Whatever the case, a thing of beauty.
Not quite as impressive as three eagles in flight is this 6-inch tall owl (Eule or Uhu) that he did for Meissen in the mid-twenties. A bit odd-looking, yes, no doubt. However, if you're familiar with some of these birds I think he's captured their unusual qualities very nicely. Glad to add this one to the aviary ...
Best!
B~
Bill,
I've always thought horses were the most magnificents creatures even when I was a kid, and you're right - there really is no shortage of sculptors who have created amazing works featuring horses.
Speaking of, I was finally able to get my hands on a Rosenthal 774 horse by Karner at a good price:
One of his most elegant equines, I think.
I have not seen the Pegasus you're speaking of. However, I really would like to add a Rosenthal Heidenreich Pegasus to my collection someday. They're just hard to come by.
Very sweet little owl, Bill. It reminds me of that one movie that came out recently; 3d animated film featuring warrior owls. Germany's really is awash with excellent animalier artists. It's always interesting to learn about a new one. Thanks for sharing!
Regards,
T.
The quality of all these items looks outstanding as well as the picture quality!
I thought I would have a barren year,as I'm working abroad, but I saw this guy on ebay and had been searching for such an example (at a reasonable price) for two years! A quick em to my helpful neighbour and he looked out for the parcel (eventually making it through all the snow!).
His photo is not the best, but, Hey, he helped make it possible for me to add this coloured Fawn to the colection (other photo to see why I wanted him!)
T,
I'm glad to see you found the Kärner beauty at a fair price, this particular model can be priced all over the place and many of the prices can be absurdly high. It's definitely a good one to have in any animal collection and especially if you specialize in horses. I hope you'll be lucky in the upcoming New Year, maybe you'll find that Pegasus model?
I'm way behind on my animated films right now - I need to see, "Despicable Me," and the little guy with the big head, forget the name of that one..? I'll try to check out the one about the owls, too. I also have to find the mate to the owl above, there's a second model in a different, stooping pose.
Tristan,
Good to hear you've been lucky too, that Bambi will be right at home in your vitrine. It'd be nice if you could score a couple more good Allach pieces before you have to go home. Maybe you could also find a new display cabinet whilst you're there? ... cause you're gonna need one real soon! heh..
I wish all of you guys a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous New Year in 2011 ...
Best!
Bill
Thanks, Bill....A Merry Christmas to all fellow porcelain collectors (sorry, this has to be last year's card!).
Tristan,
Still works for me ...
B~
Great display Tristan.
The burning candles take these beautiful items to whole nother level.Very impressive IMO.
Great deer, Tristan! Love the holiday display, too. Very jealous of your Allach horse lurking back there.
Bill, finding that Pegasus would be amazing. The owl movie is called 'Legend of the Guardians', might not be in theatres anymore but could still be at a bargain cinema. The animation is really incredible - check out the trailers on youtube.
Regards,
T.
Very nice display. Thank you
Gentlemen,
As another year is getting ready to flit by I'd like to take time to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, bountiful year in 2011. May all your collecting dreams become realities ...
I'll leave you with this nice colorful Pirol, or European oriole by our old buddy, Theodor Kärner. It looks as though he's getting ready to flit away too, heh ..
Hope to see you all in the New Year.
Best!
Bill
Bill, I saw one just like that under my bird feeder this morning. I or the cat could not catch it, so will just wait on yours to arrive. BEAUTIFUL piece, especially that i like birds. Merry Christmas to you and family and all the other collectors out there.
Bill, That's a nice birdie and always a joy to see! Thank you!
Merry Christmas and I hope that everyones wishes come true!
Merry Christmas.
That bird is about as realistic as I think you could get in porcelain.Thanks for another year of viewing these amazing works of art.
This thread has been a joy to view. I hope it continues to flourish and I wish all contributors well and good collecting.
--dj--Joe USMC.
I've had this wonderful critter for a few months now, but haven't really shown him off; my Nymphenburg Chamois. It's a strange one because it only has the impressed checkered Nymphenburg shield mark in the surface of the rocky crag base - not underneath. No other markings either. Still, a really fine sculpt. (By the way, yes, I do collect other porcelain animals from time to time!)
T.
Tiberius,
A very nice study of a chamois or Gamsbock. These fleet-footed ledge dwellers are the subject for many German porcelain artists as well as wood carvers. I find some of the old life-size head carvings really appealing too, and hope to find a good one someday. Your Nymphenburg is fine looking example of this wonderful game animal, he's got that great alert look, possibly checking out one of his companions higher up on the mountain..? The shadow-play on the fur is super, the sculptor really captured that feeling of the animal's thick, coarse hair. I can see why you broke with tradition to add this top-notch figure to your collection of horses!
I'll also take this opportunity to thank T. for helping me to add this outstanding Augarten, Chinese pheasant to my collection. It's hard to describe all the great detail to the feathering, the delicate legs and the overall balance and grace to this 'bantam-sized' powerhouse! Many thanks good sir ...
Best!
Bill
2/2
Bill, I am very glad to see that the pheasant has arrived to you safely. Your photographs really bring out the little details that I notice tend to be lacking in other examples of this bird that I have seen. Good to know that he'll have an appreciative home in Schloss Warda and do enjoy!
Thanks for your compliments on the chamois. You're right in that they do seem to be one of the more iconic German animals in the region's artistic creations. I'm also quite fond of ibexes, and have a couple examples that will post eventually.
Regards,
T.
I'm new to this thread but here's my small contribution.
Bamberger Reiter bust in Porcelain by maker Hertwig Katzhutte who also made the others that were posted in terracotta.
Nice Erich.This fits in nicely with your colleting theme.
Tiberius list his at being about 13 inches.From my guess Albrecht's appears to be about the same.Is your's a smaller version?Also any idea if the makers mark determines the approximate age?
Interesting and a pleasure to see the different variations of these beauties.Thanks
Hi Dean, mine is only 6 inches high. My example according to the MM was probably made in the 30's or 40's.
Erich,
Good to see you're keeping busy, a lovely find to start off the new year properly.
A very noble looking bust for your collection, and a nice small size too - I wasn't aware this one came in different dimensions. I'm sure it'll look terrific on your writing desk or anywhere else in your collecting room for that matter!
Thanks for adding to our little thread on German porcelain, much appreciated. I hope that anyone who sees these fine examples will see why we collect 'white-gold.'
Congratulations and may your luck continue throughout the coming year.
Best!
Bill
Thanks Bill, I find it interesting that the terra-cotta ones shown along with mine in porcelain were made by the same maker. I know that Rosenthal also made a porcelain example as well.
Erich,
Thought I'd pop this nice Rosenthal Reiter in here too ... seen it up for auction on occasion, but usually in so-so/broken condition. This one looks like a fine example.
I think we all have our own "wish-list" of great collectibles that we'd like to chase down and eventually add to our collections - no matter what field. Here's one from my file that I'd like to own someday, a trio of monkeys sculpted by Professor Julius Feldtmann, who worked for KPM and Rosenthal. Most of the work I've seen by him dates from the early 20th century into the thirties/early forties. Not very well known but he did turn out a few exceptional animal sculptures, there's another example earlier in this thread of a pair of fighting roosters by the same artist.
To my eye this little group of primates has just about everything a porcelain animal collector could ask for - great anatomy, a slight hint of caricature to exaggerate the animal's essence, wonderful, imaginative painting and that snapshot-like feeling of a moment anchored in time. It's amazing when all those fine qualities come together and that lively spirit is portrayed and captured for our pleasure and enjoyment. I believe the old Professor and the painter both achieved a very high-level of sophistication in this exceptional piece of decorative art. Hope you might enjoy it and have a chance to comment too ...
Do any of you have photos stashed away of a porcelain you'd like to own? If not, maybe just a description? Good collecting to all our ceramic aficionados!
Best!
W~
Friends,
Just spotted one more that I thought my collecting buddies might like to see, a superb tiger figure by Hans Behrens for Nymphenburg. Earlier we talked about seeing good examples of the big cats and just how difficult they are to find. If you can grab one like this you'd be a very lucky collector, these early pieces are in high demand and fetch a handsome premium. The only other tiger sculpture that even comes close (imo) is Prof. Kärner's exceptional Nymphenburg model with it's peacock prey.
Should any of you ever want to sell or trade something like this or any other pre-'45 animals that you think are exceptional, I just might be willing to barter with some of the Allach that I have left.
Best!
Bill
Ladies & Gents,
Here's one that didn't get away, a good-sized Seelöwe or Sea Lion, model number 1289, by Theodor Kärner. First sculpted in 1934 for Rosenthal, just a year before he went to work for Himmler's "Porzellan-Manufaktur Allach GmbH." This example was produced in 1944. Please enjoy ...
Best!
Bill
He's a nice old boy, they have captured the whiskers very well, I've noticed after looking at many animals, especially the big cats that most are weak in this area, this piece though is superb in that area.
Keep them coming Bill, I love them all.
Thanks
Gary
Great pieces Bill, the Rosenthal Reiter would be tops on my wish list. Best, Erich
Wonderful pieces, Bill. That Tiger is really something.
So, I'm excited to post photos of my very first colored Rosenthal horse. He's a good early piece by Karner. Super sharp mold details and wonderful glazing job. Really one of the centerpieces of my collection these days. Awesome horse.
T.
Tiberius,
Now that's something worth waiting for !!
The grey dappling on the hind flanks and shoulders really brings this one to life. The patterns are just the right shade and density to make the musculature stand out properly and define the tension in the animal's pose. That particular detail seems to be a specific preference of Kärners, as the motif was carried over into the stallions he produced earlier for Nymphenburg and later for Allach - Nr. 74, Springendes Pferd instantly comes to mind.
Another interesting aspect of your model is the decoration itself, it's quite difficult to find a painted version of this horse. The overwhelming majority of these lovely Rosenthal animals will be found undecorated, in an all-white state.
Without any reservation this has to be the finest example of this petite steed that I've ever seen!
Congratulations are in order and many thanks for sharing your latest catch with us.
Best!
Bill
Friends,
Hope all of you have been staying busy with your collecting projects, can y'all share any new additions with us?
I consider myself fortunate to have snagged a couple of Rosenthal pieces by Theo Kärner, a Rehbock plaque and this Schäferhund. Most of the painted decorations that I've seen of this shepherd dog model are of light beige and tan colors, this is the first one I've seen with the dark brown coloration added. It seems to do wonders for this diminutive canine, see what you think?
Here's wishing everyone a very good collecting year ahead ... Horrido!
Best!
Bill
I just noticed the sea lion and wanted to say very impressive life like detailing.Nice item.
Bill, Erich, T and all,
Some great pieces being shown here! Very much appreciate the time and effort. You all make my day everytime I look in on this thread. Thank you!
Not Imperial, Not Allach, Probably Post War...
My latest arrival. I thought that it would look great with my Luftwaffe themed collection.
Thank you, Willi WWII.
John
Amigos All,
Happy to see the thread chugging along and as always, a pleasure to read your kind remarks and share in your latest finds.
John Z - that eagle absolutely fascinated me, by far an Art Deco knockout! I could picture it as a large-scale bronze sitting in front of some official Luftwaffe headquarters in downtown-Berlin... Maybe you could have it scaled-up and cast for the front lawn? ... better make that the back-lawn, eh? Either way, I'm glad you like it too.
You know the old saying, "when it rains, it pours ..?" .. well, I have a couple small additions to make, too. A decorated German shepherd and a hand-painted, framed tile,
both by Herr Professor Theodor Kärner, for Rosenthal. I'm not sure if all of you have seen any of Kärner's animal drawings and paintings, there are some examples posted earlier in this thread if memory serves..?
Every now and then some original sketches and paintings become available through auction houses, etc. The point being the old boy could paint as well as he could sculpt ... how talanted can you get? I don't think Paul Casberg ever sculpted anything? Anyone know anything about that..? Would love to hear from some Casberg fans out there.
... but for now, your postive or negative comments, evaluations and critiques are always invited. Hopefully you'll get some enjoyment, too!
... and a big 'shoutout' to my chums, mates and peeps out there ... good collecting to everyone!
Billy Bob
Lots of superb pieces, thanks all.
I'm feeling left out here with nothing new to show, so forgive me if I have posted this before but it is one of my favourites, although not Allach.
It is a Shooting Prize from a Gauleiter; Meissen, 1943.
Tristan,
Good to see you here sir, hope all is well? I'm pretty certain that nobody will gripe about having to look at that great Meissen seagull twice .. at least not those who appreciate fine porcelain!
A top-notch bird with a great TR pedigree.
Got your eye on anything special? Looking forward to see what you'll turn up next.
Best regards!
Bill
For those who collect or may just be interested in Theodor Kärner's career, here's something for the books...
... as we speak someone on US Ebay has listed a "Doe & Fawn," that's attributed to Prof. K., but coming from a company that is 'as of yet' not listed in references as having produced any of his works ... nice! Have a look ...
http://cgi.ebay.com/Rare-Royal-Coburg-Pr...=item3f08fb0060Seems 100% authentic but how did it come into being? I'd say it's early postwar production, let's say somewhere between 1949 and 1955..? As common knowledge we know that several of the molds from Allach were dispersed and used by other companies, primarily to include Eschenbach, and possibly Winterling to a much smaller degree. Here's the description:
"Rare Royal Coburg Professor Theodare Karner Lying Deer with Fawn in perfect condition and about 7 inches long and 5 1/2 inches tall. This is the most amazing well made and realistic figurine. Much nicer than the Rosenthal pieces I've seen. The Rosenthal number for this piece is # 1117. I've researched T. Karner extensively, and I can't find when he worked for Royal Coburg. There is a lot of information available on him, but the fact that he worked for Royal Coburg seems to be unknown. He worked for Nymphenburg from 1905 to 1918, Rosenthal from 1918 to 1934, Allach from 1934 to 1944, and Eschenbach from 1947 to 1953. This piece must be very rare, and was obviously made before WW II. Marked Royal Coburg Germany and Prof T Karner. If you enlarge the picture of the Royal Coburg mark, you can see where it says Prof T Karner.
I've tried researching Royal Coburg and there is no information anywhere. They made a few dishes, but there is no record of them ever making animal figurines. All I can find out is that Royal Coburg and RS Prussia are somehow related. Royal Coburg apparently used the same mark as RS Prussia at one time..."
Whoever the seller is did a pretty good job of research, however, I don't agree that it's pre-WWII production. I'm fairly certain he never used the title "Professor," for anyone other than Allach during his tenure for the SS-owned company, 1935-1945. Possibly a postwar deal of some kind with Rosenthal?
No matter what the exact case might be it's a very interesting little tidbit of info.
Best!
Bill
Willi:
Thank you for this.. I really really like Prof Karner's works, no matter who produced them in the end.
But, alas, my squirrels all voted to keep deer out of their club.
John
Bill
That is a great model, it doesn't matter who made it that is Kärners work all over.
fantastic information as well
Is there a scenario that he worked for this company during 1946-47, made a few pieces and then moved on again??.
Thanks
Gary
Tristan,I never tire of seeing that nice presentation piece...Thanks for showing it. Amazing, I'm watching this one myself.I'm quite certain he used the contracted form of professor on some Rosenthal. Best!
THanks, guys.
That is,indeed, a beautiful piece of porcelain, but interestingly no bds yet. I know my Allach prices, but not others. Is it overpriced, or simply impossible to price because of its rarity and (maybe) limited marketabiity?
Gary,
SS Hauptsturmführer Kärner was incarcerated for 'political re-education,' from 1945 until 1947, at a camp in Moosbach. Later in '47 he started working again in a supervisory capacity for Oscar Schaller/Windischeschenbach. (Eschenbach)
In January 1950, Eschenbach received permission to reproduce parts of Kärner's Allach inventory from the original molds. (naturally, nothing politically incorrect)
Mikee,
I'm not quite sure how to interpret your meaning? Are you saying that you've noted pre-1935 Rosenthal pieces marked, "Prof.T Kärner?" My question would be, when these earlier models were re-released after 1945, when were they first marked with the updated title of "Prof.?" That item would reflect a new, yearly, post-'45 Rosenthal marking, right?
I think that's what you mean, correct? I have a Rosenthal Zicklein (baby goat) that's marked with the model number 1115, which I believe is pre-1935, however, it's marked with a Rosenthal logo from the fifties and uses the title, "Prof Th.Kärner."
I think it'd be interesting to find a re-released, Rosenthal example marked with a 1938 -1945 logo that uses the updated term, "Prof." This would indicate that he was honored with his newly bestowed title (since 1938) by his former employer. Or, did the company only use his honorary title starting after the war? Definitely something to look into ...
Tristan,
I think it's a reasonably fair price for such an unusual commodity, especially for the true Kärner aficionado. I agree with Gary that it's a lovely sculpture no matter who, what, when or why the piece came about... As the old collector's saying goes, 'it is what it is...' ... a unique original and tiptop stuff. If I hadn't just made a deal for an early Kärner bird I'd be tempted to have a go at this one myself ...
Best regards to one and all.
B~
Bill thank you for sharing! what a piece of Art!The legs and feet are amazing!True Art at its finest!
Hey Bill,
Thanks, your absolutely correct, I believe as you any porcelain of Karner's with Prof. on it would in my mind have to be dated after 20 April 1938. I'm sorry I didn't answer sooner, my mind was on a trail that didn't happen. Three individuals in their 30's and 40's attempted to rob me some time back at one of my residences. I love that Karner tile, beautiful.
Mikee...Nothing too serious,I hope?
Sorry about double posting the Seagul, but I have now spent an enjoyable hour browsing the thread, and relearning all the invaluable info posted by you guys.
Horses seem to figure prominently so here are my two other 'horse' pieces, (plus contrasting riders!)
Allach collectors will notice the shortened sword on the Seydlitz Rider. It was the only flaw on the piece and had to be restored but unfortunately not to its full length. Something I will return to in the future!
Mikee,
Cripes!! I hope all is well? ... damn !!! ... social retards of the highest order ... I hope these swine didn't make off with any of your goodies? Say it ain't so..?
Is there anything I can do to help?
This is miserable news old boy ... please advise, ok?
Sincerely,
Willi
Tristan,
I never tire of viewing your fine collection and really appreciate you taking the time to show them off, these are of the highest quality, very special.
Tristan, Bill,
I'm fine, thank you very much for asking. They were close, but no cigar. I held them at gun point until the police arrived. This seems to happen to me often and I just get tired of it. They're so lucky I showed restraint this time and didn't take their lives. Believe me, I made sure they understood that point. Thanks again and I very much appreciate your offer of help.
Mikee...You're joking, No?????????????? Scotlad maybe a tad dull sometimes, but....!!!
Mikee,
Good to hear that all's well ... it sounds like these twerps could use fifteen years hard labor on bread and water rations, in Siberia, that would fix 'em!
Tristan,
I agree it's fun to look back and see what all of us have put together here ... how can you beat this stuff..? ... like a (slightly smaller) Cecille B. DeMille production, it's been a few years in the making ...
Yes, I agree wholeheartedly ... a beautiful Amazone and a Prussian officer in white gold, where else can you see Kärner's works and these other fine, 20th century German sculptors all together in one place?
Even with the shorter sword your Seydlitz is still an exceptional example. There's just so much for the eye to take in, so many wonderful details to appreciate. Even to those who might not enjoy or collect German militaria or porcelain, anyone with semi-functioning eyes has to sit up and take notice of a fine piece like this. When it comes to realistic, mounted horsemen, I daresay, who even comes close to the old Professor?
Don't get me wrong here, I think I can appreciate good abstract work from time to time, but I much prefer Kärner's photo-realistic approach to sculpting animals and the human figure. But let's not forget, it was the French who drew up the blueprints for naturalistic, small-scale sculpture, nearly a hundred years before anyone ever thought of Porzellan Manufaktur Allach.
For your enjoyment I'll leave you with a neat little bird by Kärner, listed as "Meise." (Pickende) ... this simply translates to, a "tit, picking."
Best!
W~
Seeing Bill's tit prompted me to show you mine (now don't go there at all, we are talking about little porcelain birdies).
I have shown this before, but I think that it also belongs in this magnificent thread.
Willi, you may recognize this little birdie.
John
Johnnie,
I think they call that, 'tit for tit..' oops, better make that 'tit for tat..!'
Great Rosenthal bird good sir ...
Best!
W~
Tristan, you have no idea how jealous that horse-filled post of yours made me.
You guys have been posting a lot of great stuff lately. I haven't purchased anything recently, but have a couple items on my radar. *crosses fingers*
Keep up the great eye candy!
T.
Thanks, Tiberius; keep us 'posted'.
On the subject of birds, that is a lovely item , Bill, and here is my Silk Tail by Krieger (I think one of the few items by that artist in the Allach period).
Tiberius,
Good luck with the hunt, can't wait to see your latest addition.
Tristan - The Seidenschwanz or Cedar Waxwing has always been one of my favorite Allach birds, though, they're really all fantastic. I'm not sure what makes it so appealing, perhaps it's the understated detail or the elegant, flowing lines of the regal pose? What I am certain of is this is one of the finest porcelain waxwings ever produced, I can't think of one that even comes close..?
Though Wilhelm Krieger was not as prolific as some of the other Allach sculptors, his work reflects a keen eye and hand. Both his waxwing and the eagle exhibit a great blending of Jugendstil/Deco influences, certainly a product of his formal studies and training.
Over the past several years I've only seen a handful of his works for Heubach and Hutschenreuther, those too, are very seldom seen. Do Dennis Porell's new books have good biographies on the Allach artists? (haven't had a chance to splurge for those yet, but I will)
Best!
Bill
Thanks, guys. Happily, I *did* get one of the items I've been after. Should arrive in a few days, and I'll definitely share that piece here.
In the meantime, I've dug back into my collection "archives" as it were and photographed this interesting piece I picked up on ebay about a year and a half ago.
It's a well-done (alas, unmarked and unsigned) white porcelain bust of the controversial yet popular Pope Pius XII, who, as you probably know, presided over the Vatican during WWII. I haven't been able to find another one like it so I can't say for sure how old it is, but the quality suggests to me that it is not a new piece.
Any thoughts on origin or age are most welcome!
T.
Fresh from the UPS Truck, I present this handsome bronze Alsatian canine bust. It is signed 'DORMA' on the back of its neck. I actually suspect it dates more from the turn of the century than Imperial/WWII. Measures 4.5" tall.
I really like the detail of the fur and the texture of the studded collar. It looks like it was once affixed to a base - which I'll probably try to replace at some point.
T.
T,
Now that's a 'horse of a different color...'
I was pleasantly surprised with your latest post, it's the first time I've seen this bust of Pius XII. He must have had his hands full dealing with Hitler and his policies, making sure his 'flock' didn't have too much trouble living under the Nazis. Negotiating with Adolf must've been akin to dealing with the devil himself, and must've given the old boy fits and nightmares ... Modern history is now trying to lay blame on the Pontiff for having looked the other way when it came to protecting Jews and other religious minorities in Italy and throughout Europe.
Among his priorities was his duty to protect the rights of Roman Catholics, first and foremost. All things considered, I think he did his best coping with the very precarious situation he found himself in. Talk about having the 'Sword of Damocles' hanging over one's head..!' Also let's not forget that a bad decision could have caused the Luftwaffe to pay a special visit to the Vatican, in a moments notice ...
Do you think it's a German or Italian porcelain and would you have an idea as to a production date? A most interesting and thought-provoking piece for your collection, very neat.
Just saw your new shepherd addition, congrats! Do you have any other bronzes tucked away and can you tell us something about the artist, Dorma? I shouldn't think it has anything to do with Puccini's opera, Turandot?
Thanks and best regards!
B~
John,
That is an *awesome* deer figurine and all your wonderful photos give a great view of just how fine the detail and quality of the piece is. I'm glad you didn't balk at the prospect of having some cloven-hoofed critters share the woodland with your squirrels. Congrats! It's so nice to see it arrived safely to your above - glad that the seller did a great job packing.
Bill,
Thanks for your comments - and I'm even surprising myself that stuff I'm posting here lately is not horsey in nature! As a matter of fact I have another non-horse piece en-route to me. What is the world coming to?!
Now that you mention it the Pius XII piece could be of Italian manufacture, which hadn't crossed my mind before, but it makes sense given how Catholic Italy is and the fact that the Vatican is located within its borders. Otherwise, I really no nothing else about the piece and would appreciate any input from our knowledgeable crowd!
For my part I was always willing to give ol' Eugenio a bit of a break. You're right, it must have been insanely challenging for him to navigate the delicate political web that existed at the time.
As for the bronze German Shepherd, I've tried and tried to find more information about the mysterious 'DORMA' who signed the piece. However, I can find nothing. What is interesting is that I found a French company called 'Bertin' that manufactured a recast replica of this bust as a silver hood ornament in the 1930's - in fact they even scraped off Dorma's signature and replaced it with their own. Bloody thieves! If you go to
http://www.mascot-mania.co.uk/ and click on Accessory Mascots, select the 'Animals-Dogs' choice from the pulldown menu, and scroll down to '1930s German Shepherd Head by Bertin' you'll see this. I only found this because I had a suspicion he might be an early hood ornament, but I do think that the Bertin version was a recast, particularly because of how weak the detail of the fur is around the signature on the hood ornament compared to my bronze version.
Anyhow, here's one more photo of the dog, which I feel better captures his charming expression than the photos I posted yesterday:
Regards,
T.
Bill,John,
Personally, I think the both of you can be mighty proud of your tits. Thanks for showing them off and allowing us a peek! John, congrats on winning that Doe and Fawn and although I will never tire of staring in awe at yours and Bill's tit's, that Doe and Fawn one can't help but admire, just a real pleasure to see.
T,
Nice stuff as always! I've visited the Vatican a few times so I know they have a nice gift shop, maybe it came from there. Worth a try anyway. Has nothing to do with your Dorma, but love to hear Nessun Dorma. Paul Pots
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k08yxu57NA
John and Tiberius...great stuff, but my fav has to be the porcelain doe and fawn, so reminiscent of his later coloured standng and sitting doe.
JOhn...what is a 'transitional' 1938 SA (dagger?)?
Tristan:
The so-called transitional SAs are ones the have two TMs, the standard seated squirrel holding sword and the RZM mark as well. Many times, the SA and the HJ transitionals also have the year of production with the TMs.
Here is an example on the SA that I just got.
John
Thanks, John. For your info I've posted (in the dagger section) pic of an SS dagger I used to own that has the RZM mark but no maker.
Good evening, gents,
I am very excited to post about the latest addition to my collection of German porcelain, which was made possible thanks to the generosity of a dear friend to whom I am very grateful.
Presented below are photographs of a female fencer ( Die Fechterin, perhaps?
), produced by the Alboth and Kaiser (Alka Kunst) porcelain manufactury after the war. She is marked with a stamp that was used from 1930's up until 1958. The mark says W. Germany, so the piece is definitely postwar, but still from the 1950's at the latest.
The mold itself might have originated during the war - hard to say because I've never seen another one like her. Alas, she is unsigned, but I think it's fairly evident that the sculptor had considerable skill, even if the piece is slightly stylized. The creases and details of her clothing can be seen, from the leatherwork on her shoes to the buttons along the side of her tunic. She measures 12 inches tall and, in contrast to the Allach Der Fechter's uber-delicate porcelain blade, has a curved shiny silverplated steel blade affixed to the hilt of the foil and running through her fingertips on the opposing hand.
Anyhow, enough waxing enthusiastic from me, bring on the photos!
Perhaps someday I can get my hands on an Allach Fechter to be her fencing partner, eh?
T.
Tiberius,
Your new "Fechterin" is new to me, too, I've never seen this lovely lady before.
Other than some older horse-drawn carriges and similar figures, it's rare to see porcelains finished off in combination with other materials, ie., plain or decorative wire, other metals, glass, ivory, etc. - rare from that standpoint alone. I wonder if any of our mates who specialize in Allach have seen this version of a fencer before?
I hope you can figure out the artist's name and share that with us in future? I wonder if turns out to be someone we're familiar with?
Nice detail throughout her lithe atheletic pose, there's no doubt she'd make a great companion to Obermeier's impressive work.
Looks like you've had quite a run of good luck lately, and another fine addition to our thread.
Thanks and best regards!
Bill
Bill,
Thanks for your insight. It really is a shame that she isn't signed. I wonder if the company ever made a corresponding male fencer, as it's not unusual for figurines to be made in pairs. I'll definitely keep you posted if I find any other information about her.
Haha, my luck is not as much a run as you might expect right now. The Pius XII bust is a piece I've had for a long time and just felt like sharing. However, I do feel very fortunate to have the luck to add this piece to my collection.
Take care,
T.
Earlier my friend and I were discussing the larger Bamberger Reiter busts produced by Rosenthal, especially those from 1933 - '45. We'd both noticed that there were a couple of examples up for auction and both had only one trefoil/finial on right side of the crown. Both were listed as being in mint condition, having no chips, cracks or repairs.
Besides the photos that we have of the Reiter here, (a few pages earlier) there's a great thread on WAF that Robin Lumsden started, that lists several different versions of this particular bust. The thing you'll notice immediately is the variety of different crowns depicted throughout that thread and here - almost no two are the same and they all have more than one trefoil. hmmm ..?
Is anyone familiar with this Rosenthal anomaly? Even their mounted Reiter has two finials on his crown, so what's the deal, simply artistic license? I have a feeling that the single ornament is correct on the Rosenthal examples, however, I wonder if anyone can validate this with a catalog photo or first-hand experience?
Good collecting and thanks!
Bill
2/3
Will comment on the Reiter thread later, but in the meantime here's a photograph of the original sculpture in Bamburg. It looks to have at least two finial devices on the crown. - T.
T,
Recently got this Meissen Steinzeug Fohlen, (foal) by Willi Münch-Khe. First sculpted in 1928 this colt is roughly 9.5 inches long and can be found in pure white porcelain as well as the red stoneware version. Münch-Khe did a whole series of young animals for the company, I think we have at least two or three of his other fine works listed earlier in this thread.
Thought you might enjoy this neat little pony.
Best regards to all !
Bill
I find the Reiter very interesting. My bust in thread # 237889 was made by Hertwig Katzhutte. From what I understand, they also made the terracotta version as well?
Bill - If you just purchased that foal within the last week or two then I was also a contender for it. However, for some reason that particular Meissen foal doesn't appeal to me aesthetically - maybe because he seems like he's in such an uncomfortably compact pose - so I didn't bid much. He's got great detail, no doubt, but just didn't excite me enough, even though it's a Meissen Bottger horse. I'd rather save up for one of the big boys - like 'Alchimist' or 'Packard', both by Erich Oehme. Glad you were able to add him to your menagerie though! Congrats!
Erich - Yes, the terracotta Reiter bust is mine and it was also made by Hertwig. He has the number 2948 molded underneath the base.
T.
T,
That's the one - glad you didn't bid too much against me.
I've been enjoying the Steinzeug pieces for a while now, that stone just has a great feel and look to it. I consider myself lucky to have gotten anything by Münch-Khe for such a fair price. The only thing that would be better is getting an Esser for that kind of money, heh.
Even if the foal's not your cup of tea, I believe our mate Gary has recently picked up a very lovely piece of white porcelain that he might be sharing with us soon ... I'm sure his latest acquisition will make up for the slack.
Have a great Fourth and good hunting to everyone!
Bill
Gary, I presume this was the piece that Bill was referring to. A very fine and stylish owl, to be sure! I really like how his wings are tensed and just slightly unfurled, as if in preparation to take off with his tasty prize.
Congrats!
T.
Gary,
Now that's a fantastic barn owl you've found old friend! Without doubt one of the best unpainted owl sculptures I've ever seen, and you know how many I've looked at over the past several years ...
Superb composition, pose and detail to this fine unit, the artist hit a 'bases-loaded, out-of-the-park home run' with this fine work. This bird of prey ranks right up there with Wilhelm Neuhäuser's Waldohreule for Allach and Max Esser's owl sculptures for Meissen - now that's some good company to be in.
Looks like he's got a vole in his grasp, as a rat's tail would be slightly longer. I'm sure the artist who fashioned these lovely creatures would tell you so himself, heh.. I do hope you can figure out who was responsible for this avian masterpiece. I'll be checking too, as soon as I get caught up with some work.
For our friends who might be enjoying this model with us, I can assure you finding a really good owl porcelain is something akin to looking for the proverbial needle ... so many are simply plain kitsch and a terrible waste of good clay! Many times when they paint these things, they tend to wander even further down the wrong trail. I'm not too fond of the later and newer versions either, those with the matte color palettes and finishes. Some of the sculptures are very good, but the flat paint schemes just don't do it for me.
I'll take a nice gloss finish any day. For anyone who smokes cigars or cigarettes, I'd advise keeping bisque and matte-finished porcelains tucked well inside a good cabinet. What might be good for daggers is pure hell on items like those.
You've found 'the best of all worlds' with this one G, very well done and many thanks for the nice pics.
Best!
W~
Thanks fella's, it's a really nice model that fits in well with my collection.
Gary
Stopped by the local antiques mall on the way home from work today and came home with this flashy fellow:
And with Flash...
This is a circa 1940's American Bison figurine made by the Hungarian ceramics firm Zsolnay. It is finished with the company's signature metallic blue-green 'Eosin' art glaze. While the sculpt itself is buried under the layers of glaze, I find the metallic finish to be very attractive in its own right. For admirers of the sculpt, Zsolnay has produced it in a natural coloration as well that has much more mold detail.
I've always admired Zsolnay Eosin pieces, but I've never run across one that 'spoke' to me like this powerful animal does. Such a shame that Zsolnay seems to have only produced one horse in the form of a small unremarkable foal. Can you just imagine a majestic stallion executed in Eosin? *dreams*
T.
T,
Great buffalo, I think it's the first time I've seen this model by Zsolnay. I'd be tempted to go for this big guy myself.
Just enough detail to convey the power of the beast, great how you can see the rib structure.
I bought one piece of Zsolnay for a good friend years ago, a super little frog about four inches tall. It was very Art Deco and also in their famous green/blue iridescent finish.
Even if it's not German it's a great choice amigo, thanks for sharing it with us.
Best!
Bill
Thanks, Bill.
It really is difficult to capture the full beauty of Zsolnay's Eosin art glaze on camera. The closest thing I can compare it to is the iridescence of a Peacock tail feather - lots of jewel-like blues and greens with hints of gold and copper.
Glad you enjoyed,
Regards,
T.
That's a beautiful work of art, a great figure, I like the way he is pawing the ground, his shape is fantastic and those colours are super.
Gary
With the blessing of Herr Warda, I am posting some photographs of my latest horse sculpture. This is an Arabian Stallion by Kaiser of Germany. It was sculpted by Wolfgang Gawantka in the 1970's, but I think it can still be appreciated by regulars of this thread for its excellent sculpt and quality. The detail is very fine, and if you look closely you can see where the veins are evident on the sides and legs.
The horse measures 10 1/2 inches tall and was acquired from a local man whose mother purchased it in Germany when they were stationed there in the 1970's.
Enjoy.
T.
T,
Nice Arabian pony! I like Kaiser, i think Bill and I have shown an item from this company. Congratulations on another nice find.
T,
I knew our regular crew would appreciate seeing this fine specimen regardless of its age. It's got to look exceptional in and amongst your other fine pieces.
If you have some free time in the future, could you take a few 'group-shot' snaps? Maybe two or three together?
I also want to take this opportunity to thank you again for your valuable help earlier today, gracias!
Bill
Thanks, Mikee and Bill!
I'll see what I can do about some 'group photos' sometime.
And Bill, no problem! Happy to be of help.
Regards,
T.
Fellow Collectors,
Not the best eagle that I've got but it has some very good qualities to it. It's a fair size at about 13x14 inches, has lots of detail to the body and especially the feathers. Made by Wallendorf most likely in the 1950's, well done and made of fine quality hard paste.
Has anyone seen this model before? First I've ever seen it so I'd be interested to hear, thanks!
Bill
2/2
Great stuff shown here, here's my addition to the fold.
Gary
Gary,
Love those Kärner puppies and the Zicklein, they make for quite a handsome trio! Looking at the two dogs together makes for a good study of just what happens when the artist applies color to the stark white figure. Details like the prominent toenails seem to almost disappear into the background, while on the other hand, tiny aspects like his whisker-pores can be readily highlighted. You and Tristan have the right idea, one white, one painted.
Best!
Bill
Great eagle, Bill! I love the delicate talons on his feet.
Gary, it really is interesting to do comparisons of colored and white pieces. While I am normally a fan of colored pieces, I have to say that I do prefer the white version of that Karner pup.
And of course, that goat is very nice, too.
I'll toss my hat into the ring for the side-by-side comparison of pieces, too, with Karner's 'Mohammed' horse sculpture for Rosenthal. I've posted both in separate posts in this thread previously, but not together. In this case, the colored piece is significantly older and has crisper mold detail, so you can also see how a mold will deteriorate over time, even from the same manufacturer.
Keep sharing, guys!
T.
Hi Guys, back home and raring to get back in the groove. Having said that there is not a lot of (reasonably priced) Allach out there so maybe have to fall back on the''second tier' of tunics!
Anyway, great dogs,Gary and wonderful eagle,Bill to say nothing of those two horses of'T'. Interstingly, with my 'Rearing Horse' duo, it is the coloured one that lacks the detail of the Allach, but that is the latter of the two so supports 'T's comment on the deterioration of molds over time.
'm attaching my white/coloured 'man's best friends' just to give me something to contribute to the party.
Thanks again to all for this great thread!
Gents,
Thanks for the fine additions!
I was wondering if any of our regulars are going to the MAX Show in Pittsburgh this year? Just wanted to say I'll be setting-up and bringing a good supply of Kärner pieces as well as other porcelain animals along to sell.
If any of you have a chance to make it I look forward to buying beers for my old amigos.
I got very lucky this past week and purchased a couple of neat things that I'll share, if the big storm doesn't mess with the electricity this weekend ... heh.
Best regards to all and good collecting!
Bill
Willi:
I will be at the show, coming in Wednesday and leaving on Saturday, staying at the Doubletree.
See you there!
John
John,
Sounds good, will see you there!
One of the new delights I mentioned earlier is this baby raven that I got from a lady near London. Gary was good enough to stop by her place after work one night and pick it up for me. He checked it out and says it's in perfect condition, just like she said. Sometimes the big German auction houses have a colored one, but I've never seen another all white example.
Sculpted for Schwarzburger Porzellan Werkstätten in 1914 by Wilhelm Neuhäuser, who also went on to work on Himmler's staff of Allach artists. Sort of makes it easy to see why he was one of the handful to be chosen.
Remember Wotan's two ravens, Huginn and Muninn?
When Richard Wagner composed his great operatic saga "Der Ring Des Nibelungen," which borrowed liberally from both Norse and Germanic mythology, he used the Germanic pronunciation "Wotan," rather than the more Scandinavian "Odin." Huginn and Muninn survived the transfer, and while they play a relatively small part in the tetralogy, their presence is felt in at least two crucial points in the drama. Just prior to his death in the third act of "Götterdammerung" Siegfried is distracted by the ravens. When he turns to observe them Hagen thrusts his spear into the hero's back and kills him. Then, in the climactic scene of both this opera and the entirety of the Ring, Brunnhilde sends the ravens forth to summon Loge, sending him to Valhalla to set fire to the great palace of the gods.
Hope you enjoy this little Rabe, (German for raven, pronounced rah-beh)
Best!
B~
Bill, a very nice eagle! I love the talon detail on yours, I don't believe I've come across another from this maker.
Gary, T, Tristan, always a pleasure viewing your great finds, I like the comparisons, but I have to say I'm fond of the painted versions most of all.
Bill, That's some Raven you have! I just wanted to mention that the British have a long fascination and history with these birds as well. Their are a few myths and legends surrounding these great birds that reside at the Tower of London which makes for great story reading. This place is without a doubt one of my favorite places to visit when in London.
Mikee,
Thanks for always taking time to add that 'extra-pinch' of firsthand knowledge to our additions, it really rounds out the flavor of the great images we get to share.
Y'all remember looking at and discussing Max Esser's work throughout this little compilation, right? Well, even though I don't own the following pieces, I sure wouldn't mind ...
Over the past several months I've been checking out Herr Esser's career and studying whatever photographic details of his animals that I could find. I've tucked away a few noteworthy images of his work that I think you'll all enjoy. One photo that I couldn't recover is of the artist in his atelier, surrounded by taxidermed animals, anatomical references, drawings, paintings, interspersed with several completed and also 'in-progress' works and studies. Naturally, his faithful German Shepherd companion laying at his feet while he works on an impressive animal sculpture.
First, a perched rooster and then a male peacock, both with their loving hens at their feet. Then, a pair of large wall-masks made of Böttger Steinzeug. A fearsome looking male baboon bearing his fangs and a fantastic tiger giving us the evil-eye ... a little something for a rainy day as we wait for Irene to arrive, heh.
Best!
B~
2/3
3/3
Bill,
Hope everything is okay and stay safe!
Magnificent pieces! Do you how large they are? Thanks for showing them.
Bill, that new raven of yours is very nice. He looks all puffed up and gangly, as baby birds tend to be. Really an excellent addition to your collection of feathered friends.
Those Esser pieces are quite impressive as well. The Bottger masks in particular have a rather gargoyle-esque quality to them that is very appealing to me.
Thanks for sharing, as always!
T.
Sometime ago someone posted a nice porcelain 1936 Olympic bell. I've wanted to compare the one I have with it but I always got distracted and now I can't find it in my searches. Anyone know were it is? If not I'll just post mine here. Thanks for the help.
Found it!
Rare Bells Are they rare? I haven't seen many myself so I really have no idea.
Gents,
Always a pleasure sharing, really glad you found the stuff interesting!
I find these Esser grotesque animal masks extraordinary. I haven't seen the whole series yet, but I find them very intriguing and would love to own one if possible. I'm sure they're outrageously expensive and difficult to find. The factory most likely waits until they get an order of twenty-five or so before they'll re-cast any certain model, to make it worthwhile..? I've only seen one original photo of two men standing over one on a table and it looks a good size, I'd say app. 20 -24 inches? I know the weight for certain is over 8000+ grams, so what's that, roughly 20 pounds?
I'll get in touch with the factory and let you know what I find out.
Mikee - those bells are very collectible, not super-rare, but not growing on trees either. That little bank is a very neat unit ...
Best regards!
Bill
Ps I've found that Max Esser had a fascination with baboons for some reason - here's another one of his gems ...
Bill,
I think your right, expensive for sure but magnificent pieces of art. That Tiger is something else! Would love to see more!
I agree that bank is a neat little item to round out ones collection. These bells are very delicate and nicely made so I'll hold on to my bell till I get it's little brother. Congrats and thanks to Johnny for finding one so I could finally compare mine. Exact match!
It's no wonder with 300 hundred years of making this stuff, their doing something right! Produced some of the finest artists in history IMO!
Mikee,
I gotta agree, three hundred years of practice is a tough act to follow!
That's a lovely bell you have there, one has to enjoy these delicate objects that survived this long without damage. They'll be even better a hundred years from now ... hopefully someone who likes them as much as we do will end up with our goodies? heh...
I got an answer from the Meissen Company concerning the animal masks. Even though we're out of luck in regards to getting one, we might get lucky and find one someday, eh?
Dear Bill Warda,
Thank you for your interest in Meissen Porcelain and your kind inquiry.
Your German is very good.
The price of the “tiger mask” (order number: 949984-86004) was 4153,78 € (without VAT); 4943,00 € (VAT incl.).
Unfortunately, the mask was limited to 25 pieces and is out of stock.
If you have further question, please do not hesitate to contact us again.
Yours sincerely,
Doris Wagner
Customer service
Limitierte Kunstwerke | Architektur&Interieur | Schmuck&Accessoires
A bit out of my price range.
Also wanted to share this unusual character beer stein that I recently purchased. It's a Rastal copy of a rare Schierholz stein listed in one of their early 20th century catalogs. It surprised me to learn that Rastal was never a porcelain-producing firm, although, they did contract top-quality producers to manufacture their line of products. Even as a reproduction this funny Rehbock isn't seen very often on the stein market. A good size at about eleven inches tall and the quality of the paste is very satisfactory. Hope you might enjoy this clever little sculpture.
Best!
Bill
Bill,
That's a unique piece! Love it! Is this a fairy tale character?
That is a magnificent stein, Bill. It has so much detail and character; I particularly love that monocle. Yet another great addition to your collection!
T.
Also wanted to share this unusual character beer stein that I recently purchased. It's a Rastal copy of a rare Schierholz stein listed in one of their early 20th century catalogs. It surprised me to learn that Rastal was never a porcelain-producing firm, although, they did contract top-quality producers to manufacture their line of products. Even as a reproduction this funny Rehbock isn't seen very often on the stein market. A good size at about eleven inches tall and the quality of the paste is very satisfactory. Hope you might enjoy this clever little sculpture.
Best!
Bill
Has to be the ugliest thing I have seen in some time, how much ya want for it? ;o)
Ajax,
It's your right to decide what's ugly or not, free-thinking is encouraged on this forum. If you'd care to elaborate on why you find it so ugly, please be my guest.
Since I don't know who you are or quite how to take your comments, I wouldn't consider selling it to you under any circumstance.
Bill Warda
I thought the smiley and offer to purchase it would have been a clue that I was kidding. I forgot I was on GDC I guess.
Sorry if I might have misinterpreted your message, my bad. I guess the nuance went completely over my head and I reacted too strongly..?
I'm aware that GDC has a reputation for being overly stodgy, bordering on tight-assed. Personally, I'd hate lending any more credence to that theory, so I'll stay on my toes and try to avoid that in the future...
Kind regards,
Bill
Willi:
Stodgy and tight assed seem to fit you to a 't'
John
JZ,
Ummm.
Didn't know they made green Allach
Dave,
Oh no, the green-stuff is Zsolnay, from Czechoslovakia.
B~
TA Willi:
I thought that Zsolnay was from Hungary?
John
JZ,
You are correct sir!
TA-W
Animal Aficionados,
Thought it would be good to have a look at a couple of nice sculptures by painter/sculptor Helmut Diller. Helmut was the son of the well-known 20th century animal sculptor Fritz Diller, noted for his fine work in Hutschenreuther/Rosenthal porcelain and bronze. I'm sure at least one or two of Fritz's pieces are featured in earlier parts of this thread and possibly even one of Helmut's animals that Gary owns..?
Either way, I thought you might enjoy theses nice units ...
Best!
Bill
2/3
3/3
T-A Willi:
I love them all, but the first one, an elk?, is my favourite.
Hans
Bill, that last item is amazing! Imagine those horns in pure, pristine porcelain!
Hans im Glück,
Yes, a superb rendering of a big ol' elk. There are so many good animal bronzes out there on the web, no lack of talent by any stretch ...
Looking at works like these really tickles my fancy. To my eye there are just a handful of artists who capture not only the line and form of a bird or beast, they actually instill a small part of that creature's spirit, soul, or essence into the glass, granite or metal. Since I truly enjoy the diverse natural world that we share, it's a pleasure just to be able to see work on this level. Art for art's sake!
T - Always good to know you're keeping an eye on us from time to time. I don't think I've ever seen a sable in porcelain before, a pair of oryx, yes? The horns would be a hat-trick and a-half, wouldn't they..? Be assured, I'd settle for this bronze ... even the pelicans!
Bill
Bill,
Thanks for sharing this great pieces with us! If I had the means, and could only pick one of them, I would drop my money on that uber-stylish Giant Sable Antelope. What a killer piece!
T.
Bill,
Oh my, these are really really nice! I really love bronzes! I like them all and your pictures with lighting is great!
Hans Im Gluck is right! And may he always bring you veil Gluck (much luck) in the future, ivory version of course and it's actually a letter opener and as long as a dagger. Thanks for always sharing and it is for me a joy viewing your collection.
JohnZ, Elk? Well that depends, if your European it's refered to as a Red Deer. An Elk to a European is what we call a Moose.
Glad you all liked Helmut's animal sculptures, I thought you might.
Mikee, where did you get that lovely opener, I don't believe we've seen this one before? That's a fantastic carving by any standards, the detail like the sagging of the leather boot-tops is simply top-notch and brilliant. So many aspects to study and enjoy from the very top to the fine acanthus leaf cluster at the base. Now that's a keeper!
If you get a chance I'd love to see more of this wonderful item, you sure know how to pick 'em.
Best regards!
W~
Bill,
Thank you and I'm glad you like it! It is German crafted and I believe it was made during the Imperial time, but maybe earlier. I think 1850-1880. It has great detail to it snd as you can see by my measurement it's a pretty good size as well.
Mikee,
Thanks for the additional photos, that is one elegant letter opener.
Fine work like this sets the standard for the German decorative arts that we all enjoy collecting, looking at, and studying. Literally, the quality stares directly back at you.
Whether a delicate porcelain sculpture, detailed carving or intricate, embroidered bullion flag, they should easily take your breath away and titillate the senses. Steeped in practice, lore and old tradition it's no small wonder that interest in Imperial German/Third Reich art and antiques continues on its lofty rise ...
Picked up my 1914, Schwarzburg baby raven from Gary at the MAX - perfecto! I'd consider this to be my Pittsburgh gift to myself, along with a few good reference books.
I was amazed at the scale of the bird and took this additional snap to give you an idea of his/her size. I'd hate to have to feed that plump little rascal - it'd be a full-time operation.
Best!
B~
Bill,
Thanks for another look. That guy is a monster! I love the detail. Natures design can't be beat imo! Us humans have learned to imitate it and utilize it in so many different ways. Like the shape of the birds beak to design types of knifes. The beak, feet and claws really stand out on this piece. It looks perfectly fine in white but I wonder how it would look painted?
Bill, do you by chance have any photos of your spread of porcelain critters at the MAX show? I'd love to see what beauties you brought along to peddle.
Glad to see the 'little' Raven is home safely with you, too.
T.
T,
I'm not sure if anyone besides the "official MAX photographer"
took any snaps..?
What's new in your neck o' the woods, got anything good in the works? Hope so!
Best!
Bill
Ah, well, hopefully a photo of your offerings will surface.
On my end, well, I have a rather fragile package en route from the UK, and am diligently following an item on ebay. Will update when I am able.
T.
I have two
David,
Many thanks!
Talk about a most un-photogenic mug, heh ...
B~
Nice to put a face to the text!
I, also, have a couple of things in the pipeline now that I am back in the addictive world of collecting, so I hope to post in a short while!
Great selection of porcelain, Bill! I see some familiar faces in that grouping. Did you have good sales?
Dave, thank you for posting those pictures.
T.
I hope you sold out because my wife saw an eagle in the picture and I saw a mouse. Tell me you sold them.
--dj--Joe
Bill, What a great collection! My problem is I like all of it!
T, I hope you can snag that ebay find! Best of luck to you.
Tristan, Can't wait to see your new additions!
Gents,
Nice to see everyone back here for the fall collecting-season ...
Looking forward to seeing what both Tiberius and Tristan turned up, tiptop goodies I'm sure!
Joe - sorry, the eagle and one of my pair of mice were sold. Still have a nice early mouse by Wilhelm Neuhäuser. He also did the baby raven above and was one of the Allach boys later, from 1935 - 1945. If you're really interested we can work something out, no problem.
Mikee - might have a decent Art Deco, Weimar bronze falcon for you, should you be inclined..?
Best regards and good collecting to everyone!
Bill
Alas, I did not win the ebay treasure (though it sold for over double what I was willing to pay so I wasn't too heartbroken). But thanks to all who wished me luck!
On a happier note, I did receive that package from the UK yesterday and after much careful unpacking I unveiled this beauty:
Ca. 1950's Alka Kunst 'Meteor' stallion sculpted by Bochmann. This mold was later also produced under the Kaiser Porzellan label, though I believe only in unglazed bisque and a matte colored version. I've been searching for the original glazed AK version for a while so I am very happy to add this fellow to my herd.
T.
Very Nice!
Sorry you missed out on another, but try this instead!!!!
http://www.ebay.de/itm/Allach-Porzellan-...=item43aa25db49
....some people don't know there's a recession!
What a beauty, but good grief, I can say with utter certainty that the the asking price is significantly more than I've spent on my entire collection of porcelain!
T.
T,
Nice score and a very nice looking piece with detail. Sorry you missed out on the ebay piece as well.
One of the two turned up trumps!
This is The Butler-Dragooner, no.131 by Richard Forster. Made in 1943 as one of a series of 18th century Prussian Fussoldaten soldiers, they were given to Hitler on his birthday in April 1944, and there is a well-known photo of him with Himmler, Fegelein and Schaub looking at these figurines.
I'm delighted to be able to add this to the collection!
...
Tristan,
Yes please, send a pair of those "Frtizes" round to my place straightaway! Two would make for some very-happening bookends, wouldn't you agree?
It would be fantastic to have that kind of money to pour into one's collection, but I'd wager a week's salary many of us couldn't pull that off on a regular basis... heh, maybe once in a lifetime, if lucky..?
T - I know you've got an eye for Bochmann's horse pieces, I'm liking them more and more as I look at your examples. Great life and pose in this one, too, nice and lively. The anatomy looks spot on with all the artist's signiature minutia - love that kind of work, makes me feel like I'm getting my money's worth. The more realistic the better ... well, except for some of those smooth, plain Art Deco units ... a couple of those are really killer.
I know Herr Bochmann had a long list of works to his credit. He seems to rival sculptors like Kärner, Heidenreich and Tutter in their production numbers, right up there. Would you know if any of his pieces were made under the contract Goebel had with Walt Disney to produce the "Bambi" animals?
Tristan, now that's a military figurine, classic! The smug look on Fegelein's face in that photo is probably what ended up with Hitler having him shot at the end! It's not nice to make jest of the Führer's art interests. heh ..
I think I may see where this is going ... are you going to work on putting the entire lot together? That'd be one hell of a good project!
T & T, we salute you, thanks for sharing.
Bill
Thanks, Bill, but picking up any more of these Fusssoldaten is most unlikely, never mind the cost! I was just lucky with that one.
Gary,
Glad to see you added another good piece of Allach to your growing collection. This 'bittender Bär,' or begging bear must have been very popular with ordinary citizens while it was available and is still prized by modern-day porcelain collectors. Kärner's number 5 bear came in two versions, the first one didn't have a base and was free-standing, the second was mounted on a two-tiered octagonal foundation, like yours.
I agree with you that the majority of the painted versions were of a light tan color, nice to see this darker example. I'm looking forward to seeing it next month.
Thanks for the sneak-preview.
Best!
B~
Thanks guys, it's only when you see this piece in close up do you see how good the painting is, they have managed to blend the colours in such a realistic fashion, he is a great looking bear.
Cheers
Gary
Great Bear, Baz!
Good thing it isn't a squirrel or I would be really jealous instead of happy for you
John
Nice bear, here's my Allach in white amongst the grouping.
Nice bears guys! But that extra touch of painting really brings these pieces to life!
Erich,
A very tasty display, sehr schön!
Not Allach but for those who appreciate fine horse figures ...
thought you might enjoy this unique portrait of a piper and his downtrodden steed. Karl Tutter's name has taken its place in the foremost ranks of 20th century, Hutschenreuther sculptors of note. The name of this particular work is, "Song of Lament," and it's fairly easy to see why. It would be difficult to interpret that strictly from looking at the piper, however, the artist conveys that feeling entirely through the physical appearance of the horse. The poor bugger seems to be on 'his last leg' as he strains under the weight of his rather thin rider. The placement of those over-exaggerated legs is simply marvelous, every fibre of the animal struggles to take just one more painful step forward.
The fine, gilded accents bring that Art Deco feeling to life, one has to admire the steady hand that applied those long elegant brush strokes.
Hope you'll enjoy ... best!
Bill
Since we're looking at figures with gilded accents, I recently spied this neat late-Weimar grasshopper by Karl Himmelstoss for Rosenthal.
I know some of you guys don't like these white/gold pieces but I've taken a liking to some of them.
Best!
B~
Herr Warda
Your collecting sphere is very varied, I'm not sure what to say about the grasshopper, not my cup of tea but each to their own, I struggle to get past the gold accents and see little in it myself but that's just me. The guy on the horse though is humerous, I like him.
SfK
Bill,
More great finds and like them both. The gold trim I think is a very nice touch. This trim style is I think normally seen on German porcellan. I see it quite a bit.
G-man,
There were more than two decades when this style was very popular with German porcelain houses, I'd say predominantly from around 1910 - 1930. I like the looks of some of it, it's simple yet elegant. Some of the old masters like Fritz Klee had many of their designs decorated in this style and they work very well in my humble opinion. I've also seen some of these gilded pieces that I'd let the grandsons use for target practice ...
Looking at and judging things other people deem valuable or nice is interesting on so many levels. Naturally we all have to agree to disagree from time to time, you say 'toe-mah-toe' and I sat 'ta-mader...' That's part of what makes this hobby so enjoyable, actually being able to tell time through various styles, materials and finishing methods. My wife always tells me to 'expand my horizons' and not be so stodgy, so I'm trying my best not to be a "one-trick pony."
Mikee - glad to have you in my corner, heh... I didn't buy these two pieces, they're merely examples of other interesting works out there. As a rule I'm usually not too keen on 19th century porcelain animals, they're normally just a bit too borderline-primitive for my tastes, especially the painting and decoration. But every once in a great while I see something I like, but not often. However, I do like that Bauhaus-feel to some of these white/gold Art Deco creations.
Hope Johnny Z. doesn't see this thread ... I know he hates these gilded units, ha!
I've got something coming in the mail that's taking forever, but hopefully worth the wait ... good collecting to all.
Best!
B~
Bill...I like the grasshoper better than the horseman, and I take it that is the same Himmelstoss who did the Allach Munich Maid Flower Prize, his one and only piece, I think...do you know why that was?
Can you open this link for a recent German auction piece....amazing detail!
http://www.lot-tissimo.com/en/i/4630328/p/29/
Erich,
A very tasty display, sehr schön!
Not Allach but for those who appreciate fine horse figures ...
thought you might enjoy this unique portrait of a piper and his downtrodden steed. ...
Bill
Bill,
That is a really wonderful horse and rider figure you've acquired. The sculpting is very sensitive and elegant, despite the humorous bent to the piece. While most of the equine figures I collect are largely realistic, I do enjoy the occasional stylized critter - whether through aesthetic choice or whimsical affectation.
That poor old horse really does look like he's about to drop from exhaustion. Great character, really.
Can't wait to see what further treasure you have in the mail!
Thanks for sharing!
T.
Tristan,
I honestly never noticed that Himmelstoss contracted to make the flower prize before! And on top of that it was the first piece of Allach I ever bought, at least twenty years ago, heh. Determining the arrangement or contract would be beyond my limited knowledge of Allach. There's a possibility that Kris or Dennis might know the reason why Karl Himmelstoss was chosen? Possibly through his old Rosenthal connection with Professor Kärner? Good observation and question.
Did you by any chance save the larger photo of the "Chamäleon mit Frosch?" When I opened the link the auction was stopped and they only left that postage stamp size photo to view. I'll have to see if I can turn up a better image of that lovely unit for us if you didn't. From what I could see it looks more than impressive and I love the subject matter. At nearly 20 inches tall it's a definite 'eye-catcher' and just the type of thing that floats my boat.
Do you know who sculpted the nude on the gold ball? Maybe Werner or Scheurich? Now that one I like ... much more elegant that the Schaubach Kunst examples.
Thanks so much for sharing your latest observations with all of us, I especially enjoy this kind of input.
Tiberius,
Thought you might enjoy the horse figure too, heh ..
I didn't get these two pieces, just thought they were something good to post for us. It's also great fun to get Baz and John Z's blood-pressure up a few notches ... Looking forward to receiving my latest find, something a bit out of the ordinary for me. Hope your studies are going well.
Best!
B~
Bill,
Has it arrived yet. I can't wait to see it!
Hi Bill..,sorry, no I don't have a larger image, but here is the base of the nude figure, which I'm sure will mean more to you than to me!
http://www.pastbuy.net/lo/galerie.php?mode=P&pic=4
Bill
You want this picture??
G
Actually, Willi, I really do not like the gilded units.
I like the plain white ones and love the coloured ones. The ones that show these gold accents do not do anything for me.
My blood pressure is fine, until the wife gets all excited about my latest finds, then off the charts it goes.
Beautiful items, guys.
John
Gents,
A special thanks goes to Tristan and our old mate Gary for snagging this photo for the thread. Gracias !
I thought this was going to be a special piece, but I stand corrected, it's way better than that. Just enough whimsey combined with an extraordinary sense of natural realism.
I'd be curious to know what the artist was thinking when he had this pair in mind? At first I thought they might be going for the same insect but there's none to be found ... perhaps just a close encounter for the frog coming face-to-face with this slow, alien reptile climbing over the stump..? Gustav Oppel for Aelteste Volkstedter Porzellanfabrik, 1920.
To me this is another of those fine sculptures that one can get lost in for a while, there's just a lot to take in and appreciate. Good fun for the eye.
G - Simon and Ethan will love seeing this. (grandsons who breed old-world chameleons) JZ - heh ...
Hope you guys enjoy.
Best!
Bill
Fellow Porcelain Patriots,
Here's the one I've been waiting for, a piece that I was instantly drawn to and curious about simply due to the graphic elements. I had no idea of what "Der rote Hahn," or "The red Rooster," represented in German lore or history? The Wappen, or city crest, belongs to Dresden and the date of the plate was a 'no-brainer,' heh. At first I thought maybe a famous old brewery or something along those lines? I didn't quite trust the seller's explanation - he mentioned that it had something to do with the 1935 Jahresschau Deutscher Arbeit, held that year in the venerable city of Dresden, which was additionally the home of the noble porcelain manufacturer, Meissen. Since the plate was produced by Meissen, too, things slowly started to take shape. Initial searches for the 1935 Jahresschau (JDA) didn't turn anything up, but led me to read an article about beer during the Middle Ages, in the town of Meissen. It told of how brewing good beer brought steady work to its citizens and how they prospered, etc. Alas, there were also a few drawbacks.
Brewing the mash in quantity called for great, roaring wood fires, the kind that kicks up plenty of sparks. Since the houses back then were chiefly constructed of wood and straw, these wild sparks could prove deadly, which they most certainly did. The text further mentioned, "Leicht sprang ihnen der rote Hahn aufs Dach, und oft wird von schrecklichen Feuern berichtet." In other words, the red rooster sprang easily onto these flammable roofs, and terrible fires were documented. So that was it then, the red rooster signified the sparks that caused fire and destruction?
There was also a popular 1901 play titled "Der rote Hahn," by G. Hauptmann, that opened in Berlin that same year. One of the play's central characters, Frau Fielitz, burns down her house so that she can claim the fire insurance money - jemand den roten Hahn aufs Dach setzen. (to make the red rooster sit on someone's roof)
Finally, another round of searches turned up what I was specifically after, information directly related to the 1935, Jahresschau Deutscher Arbeit exhibition. These national shows and competitions were greatly encouraged by the Party - a German celebration of guild-craftsmanship, decorative and the folk arts. 'Dicke Bonzen' like Walter Funk, Dr. Robert Ley and Paul Walter were closely associated with many of these cultural affairs, especially the large, international 'Handwerk' events.
One entry in the 1935 Jahresschau mentions several large handpainted plates or chargers by Meissen. It clearly lists two of the plates (in a series of seven) as, "Der rote Hahn," (the red rooster) and "Drei nebeneinander stehende Feuerwehrmänner," or three firemen standing together. From what I gather this series must have been an artistic tribute to the nation's firemen and fire-related subjects. I can truely say if this plate is any indication of the quality of the six others, they must be fairly nice, too. By the way, there's a unique gilding/painting process that I can't capture properly, due entirely to my modicum of photographic skills, sorry.
An additional bit of miserable irony to the story ... we all remember the horrible fate of Dresden in March of 1945, right? Well, I guess one could say the red rooster had his 'finest hour,' whilst visiting there. Very, very sad ...
I sincerely hope that the holidays bring each of you much luck and good fortune with your porcelain collections in 2012. All of your combined contributions these past months have made my collecting year that much better, thanks for that.
Best regards!
Bill Warda
Very nice item Bill.Thanks for posting another one of your excellent finds and the information behind it.
Great plate Bill, graphically it's superb especially his tail feathers that look to be designed to look like the flames spreading over the buildings, that's what I get from it anyway.
Thanks for the history, it really brings it to life.
G
Bill,
That's one heck of a nice plate! I think the reason given is a great explanation. But I just wanted to add that "the red rooster on a roof", refers to arson and pillaging. In the Norse sagas, we find one of the first references to the "red rooster" as a fire bird and Edda as the "black red rooster" which was the bird of the underworld. Also, the rooster crows at the break of every new dawn which symbolizes vigilance and victory, reasons why we see them on houses and barns. This dual symbolism of the red roaster embodies this theme of fire and protection.
A Jahresschau yes, but it was the first for the Deutsche Volkschau fur feurschutz und Rettungswesen, which was an exhibit held from June to September 1935 in Dresden and today is known as The Red Rooster, Interschutz. These shows continue to this day. The main theme of this exhibition in 1935 was " large fires in the community", so a contest was held to name this exhibition and come up with a logo. The prize winner was to receive 100 Reichsmarks and the individual who won this contest was Dresdener painter and graphic artist Helmut Müller-Molo who also designed the official advertising poster which is the same one shown on this fine plate.
The exhibits among other things included fire protection, fire extinguishing systems, rescue services, fire alarms, communications, water supply, emergency services, air protection and insurance. And among the exhibits, there was a special section for history and art which included the development of fire fighting equipment, paintings,engravings and photographs of fire disasters from around the world. They had some really old equipment that was shown. There's much more history but wanted to keep it as short as possible. Thanks.
You guys should write a book...seriously!
Mikee - Your additional information is deeply appreciated. A few key words and phrases from that input led me to find the original German text, which is chock-full of interesting names, dates and collateral material. It also proves that sharing knowledge adds a whole new dimension to our wonderful hobby. With a little help from our friends there are constantly new leads and ideas to peruse, investigate and follow.
Gents - thanks for your kind words and comments on the 'Feuerwehr und Luftschutzausstellung' plate. It's always a pleasure finding something out of the ordinary and sharing it with experienced old friends here on the forum.
Bill
Bill,
Your more than welcome!
Advertising poster, signed by the artist Helmut Müller-Molo in the upper right hand corner.
.
Happy New Year to all fellow appreciators of the porcelain art!
Tristan,
Kind thanks good sir!
I certainly hope everyone had a great Julfest and New Year's celebration. Did St. Nicholas bring any nice new white-gold for someone's collection?
I got one wonderful Christmas gift for my collection, but it wasn't porcelain this year.
Wishing all our friends and visitors a fantastic collecting year in 2012!
W~
Here's one that came in over Christmas. It is the Allach Grunfink by Rohring...lovely detail in the feathers and talons. Actually quite a small piece, compared with, say, the Amsel.
Hey Tristan,
Nice Christmas present and congratulations on your new addition. I normally prefer painted porcellan, but I really like that one in white. Thanks.
Thanks, Mikee.
Coloured Allach is rarer, and more expensive!
That's a great model, I think it's one I'd like to add to my collection at some time, thanks for showing.
Gary
Thanks, Gary. If I want to sell it I'll bear you in mind!
Great little bird, Tristan! Love all the delicate details.
It's been a while since I've shared something new on this thread, but I'm excited to show off my latest equine find. It's a piece I've been tracking down for a while and I lucked into it for a great price recently. It's a large (12" x 12") horse by the German firm Cortendorf, which manufactured earthenware/ceramic decorative pieces around the mid-century. It was later acquired by the Goebel company, which many of the Cortendorf molds being recycled and produced under the Goebel name. This horse, an original Cortendorf piece, dates to about the mid 1950's. I also have the same horse in two different colors as produced by Goebel, but this one is far and away the nicest of the lot.
Unfortunately, as with many of the Cortendorf/Goebel horses pre-dating such talents as Bochmann and Grindley, information about the sculptor of this piece and others like it remains elusive. There is no signature, but as you can see the artist that created this piece had a fine eye for details, proportion, and a classic sculptural elegance.
Enjoy!
T.
Tristan,
It might not be a large model, but you know what they say about dynamite coming in 'small packages ...' ... right?
Glad to see that you've found another outstanding unit for your super collection, very nice.
You know, after looking at works produced by Allach for some years now, I never grow tired of seeing this upstart company's quest for excellence. They were just so consistent on so many different levels - items large and small: light-fixtures, iconic busts, historic personages, plaques, plates and lest we forget, some of the most spectacular birds and animals ever produced in late 19th and twentieth-century, European porcelain.
Tiberius,
Another beauty, I like the way the legs are painted and the subtle but strong tones that define the body musculature. Are any of Hussmann's horses on your want list, I'd just be curious to know? I've never seen any 'up-close-and-personal' but they seem dynamic and full of action, usually with a wild mane flying about in all directions.
I've been looking into Gerhard Marcks' animals lately, I wanted to see if all the fuss was warranted about him? I saw a few of his works and thought they were a bit too primitive for my taste. There's a porcelain lioness by Marcks that barely hints at any detail whatsoever, and is normally expensive. But then I found that he produced a long series of bronze wildlife, to include some very interesting, almost minimalist stuff. The Nazis hated his avant-garde style and eventually drove him out of business, along with countless other talented artists. Anyway, here are a couple of pieces by Herr Marcks that I hope you'll enjoy, some more horses and a nice fat swine, heh ...
Best!
B~
2/2
Tiberius, I love the haughty look of your horse - the artist captures that very well!
Bill, I came into Allach via general TR collecting, but you and others are helping me to see things in a broader artistic context, and this is the beauty of this particular forum!
Bill, Tristan, thank you both for your kind words about my latest horse.
Bill, I have actually tried to go after Hussmann horses in the past but they've usually gone out of my price range. I tend to prefer his more refined pieces, though, with less wildly flying mane and tail action. He is assuredly on the list of coveted artists for my horse collection, though!
Those Marcks pieces are interesting. Not quite my cup of tea, but very distinctive style that would go well with more minimalist decor.
T.
Gents,
Whilst surfing the internet I try to save photos of things that might be of interest to us, and/or, pieces that I really admire and wouldn't mind having for my collection, heh ..
I recently found this big bugger of a grizzly/brown bear and thought it would make some good food for thought ... hope some of you might comment on this big old fella.
It's an early 20th century piece by Meissen, though, I'm not certain who the artist was, guessing possibly Friedrich Roth? At over twenty inches long this colossus must literally weigh a ton!
Best!
B~
Bill, I think he's looking for his little friend at 258237!
Just picked up this 1941 Julteller - nothing startling but keeps the collection going.
If anyone out there spots a 1942 Plate please give me a bell!
Friends, Colleagues and Collectors,
The story behind these imaginative porcelain creations (known in German as Zwerge - gnomes, elves, goblins, imps, etc) is quite interesting and takes us back to the 1600's. The French illustrator and copper-engraver, Jaques Callot, is said to be the inspiration behind these fantastic figures, based on the characters he created for the Italian, 'Commedia dell' arte,' a comedy of improvisation.
The initial examples were produced in porcelain and exhibited in Vienna, Austria, in the mid-1800's, by the Italian firm of Ginori as a colorful series of beggars, musicians, courtly figures, hunchbacks, dwarves and gnomes. They were an instant success with the public and immediately the ideas were either stolen outright, copied, and/or expanded on, by any number of Italian, Austrian and German porcelain factories. It seems there was much less control over copyright law back then, so these may be found with any number of maker's marks, including that of the firm of Volkstedt, Aelteste Volkstedter Porzellanfabrik AG, 1915-1936, logo.
I can tell you honestly it's very difficult even for "the experts" to determine that which was originally produced and that which was copied by who and when? With this 'at-best hazy background,' my advice would be to judge every example as a copy. If you can accept that, then review and evaluate each piece simply on it's artistic merit and condition. Just as with any good stoneware like fine beersteins, porcelain, glassware or any other good collectible for that matter, always avoid damaged items if possible. Pay more if necessary, as serious collectors will beat you up over condition when you're selling.
In this case I'm satisfied without knowing the originality of this pair of three and three-quarter inch, rogues. I give you my word you could pop them into a 'lineup' of Allach-quality figurines and they'd fit right in ... something like midget Moriskentänzer.
Hope you enjoy, good collecting to all.
Best!
Bill
2/2
Allach collectors BEWARE...there might be a fake Allach Berghirsch back on Ebay. It is a genuin Karner piece, very nice, but NOT Allach. It has no. 159 instead of no. 10, and a pinted 'SS Allach' under the glaze (This is good but not exact).
There also seems to have been another emblem in the centre of the base but this has been removed and re-glazed.
The Eay name is Rotchronograf (222) and his name is Rudi Reisinger.
Tristan,
I've not seen a fake Berghirsch before and wonder what it could have started as, I'm guessing possibly an early Eschenbach? I don't have a good list of the exact molds that were authorized and licensed by the occupation forces, and given to the company to produce after the war?
A clean, undamaged original Allach/Eschenbach, Kärner figurine would command a fairly good price as is - the quality of these early Eschenbach casts are normally quite excellent and at least to me they're valuable exactly for what they are, and in certain cases, the next best thing to owning a 1935-1945, Allach example.
I couldn't find the auction but, if that's how it plays, then it's either case of blatant stupidity, and/or outright theft. Hope they get the bugger by the short'n curlies!
Thanks for the heads-up.
Bill
Tristan
Thanks for the heads up, I'll keep an eye out for it, there are some very unscrupulous people out there.
Cheers
Gary
Thanks, Baz...this time he is quoting the 159 number which he didn't do before, but still calling it original Allach.
After the recent disappointment it is nice to report there are some gentlemen left in the hobby (actually, that is the norm rather than the exception), and this piece came in the other day from Poland.
It is the quite rare 1941 Julteller plate with a central pine twig, and I can add it to the '42 and'43 plates. The '40 and '44 are like hen's teeth so I'm not holding my breath!
T,
Congratulations, very nice!
B~
Yes, a very nice Julteller for sure. I almost beat you to the punch on this plate Tristan but you got there before me. The 41 teller is my favorite design of the series BTW.
Sorry, Erich...guess I owe you one!
It went to a good home and to someone who will appreciate it. Congrats!
These are a pleasure to see surviving today. To ship or carry these homeward is stressful. Allach is as fragile as coral. I spent much time on the islands the seas prduced such architectural wonder and every time I carefully packed the contents carefully,, there always seemed to be one broken piece. To own unbroken Allach is a gift! Cheers Edward
Tristan,
This is a fine addition for you and has always been a personal favorite, a top-quality model of a Damhirsch. (fallow-deer)
Yours is the first one I recall seeing with the decorative gilded stripe on the base, that's a classy little touch, nice.
The examples that they made in the thirties are especially nice, both white and decorated versions. There was one, maybe more, painters that decorated this piece to absolute perfection. The deer literally looks like it can just get up and walk away ... with their distinctive white-spotting, these are truly lovely animals.
T, I think this is a 1936 mark, no? Sometimes these markings with all their dots, doo-dads, dribbles and dashes make my head spin round ...
Very nice good sir, very nice!
Bill
Thank you Bill, I appreciate your comments.
I'm especially pleased wih it as there appears to be no repairs to the antlers, which is amazing considering it is 80 years old!
It is 1931...my photo is perhaps not very clear There are two roses and one crown above the logo, and beneath it an inverted 'V.'
Bill..I should have known your experience in these matters is greater than mine, and paid more attention!!! You are quite right, it IS 1936...I was lookng at the top line in my book (1931), rather than the bottom one (1936).
Tristan, that is a really sharp example of that Fallow Deer by Karner. Looks right at home with your herd of very fine deer figurines! Congrats on a nice find.
Alas, I haven't had much luck with finding any worthy German figurines of late. However, in the spirit of making a contribution to the board I'm dusting off a photo of an oldie but a goodie from my collection that I posted on a previous, and now defunct, forum.
This large rearing stallion was sculpted by Karl Tutter for Hutschenreuther. It was also made with a nude maiden rider and occurs in uncolored white, dappled gray (as shown), and chestnut brown (very rare) colorations.
Enjoy,
T.
Thanks, Tiberius. I very much like the dappling on your horse, and well worth repeating the image!
There seem be a number of Rosenthal horses in some upcoming auctions, so good luck if you are going for any.
As ever this thread continues to be enjoyable, there are some fantastic items being shown lately, this thread is a must for me and I check it everyday.
Slim pickings lately though I managed to pick this piece up over the weekend, worth the 200 mile roundtrip as it was never going into the post.
Kärner at his genius best.
Gary
I've always wanted one of these especially after being lucky enough to pick up this Bronze by Kärner.
Side by side they look great, a few differences but essentially the same roaring stag. The Bronze is slightly larger but not by much.
Gary
I did find a reference to the Bronze stag in a 1935 dated hunting magazine,top R/H corner #5, one of these bronze stags was awarded by the Landesjägermeisters of Bayern as a shooting prize.
Gary
Gary,
Those are some amazing pieces.
These can't be too easy to find, and as for how delicate they are, they must be even harder to find with all the little intricacies in tact.
Beautiful specimens and thank you for showing.
Rich
Bill, Tristan, Tiberius, Gary,
A real pleasure seeing what you all have turned up of late! Gary I don't blame you for traveling long distance to pick that one up. I would've done the same. Thank you all.
Gary, you travelled 200 miles to get that Hirsch...now where was that, I wonder???? Certainly not here in Scotland.
Great buy!
Gentlemen,
Fine additions all, many thanks to everyone for your comments and contributions. Times are lean as far as collecting, but just seeing and sharing each other's finds is inspirational and trustfully keeps that flicker of hope alive for many of us. It's good to keep that drive going, even if at a somewhat slower, snail's pace ...
Sadly, even though Theodor Kärner has a fair-sized and loyal following, I think much of his work is still under-appreciated and valued. For someone who can't afford Allach but would still like a pattern of his marvelous skill for your collection, check out his works for Nymphenburg, Rosenthal and Eschenbach. You're likely to snag one at a fraction of the cost of a rune-marked example. On the other hand, be prepared to shell-out handsomely for good, original Kärner bronzes, they're far and few between ... now and then some of his incredible animal-themed sketches and paintings will come up at auction, too.
What can we say about Herr Professor Kärner that hasn't been said ten times already? He's like an expert marksman who just keeps hitting the ten-ring over and over, and over again ... difficult keeping track of all his perfect scores!
Gary, your pair of bellowing stags is something extra-special, both renderings are quite exceptional. The bronze shooting prize has to be another of my favorite Hirsch sculptures. Like a good crisp, clear snapshot, he captures everything that makes the animal come to life for us; the pose, anatomy and details are extraordinary. You could also say he had a penchant for hooved-animals as his horse and deer sculptures are varied and many. Somehow, the man could continuously impart that special lifespark into just about all of his subjects - whether human, beast or fowl.
I'm not certain at what point one crosses over to genius-level, however, Herr Kärner unreservedly gets my vote for being a "genius with his hands ..."
Good collecting!
W~
Guys, I haven't bought much lately and I'm over the moon with this last purchase, these two together are fantastic, I feel lucky to own such wonderful pieces.
Gary
Gary:
Luck is most often the precise application of skills.
If we use that definition, then you are lucky.
Congratulations,
John
John Z.,
Nicely put ... did you steal that line from somewhere or is that an original ..? heh ..
All kidding aside that saying is quite apropos!
W~
Thought you might enjoy this delicate doe by Prof. Kärner ...
A very nice Model 151 for Allach.
Best!
Willi
Willi,
Beautiful piece, beautiful detail.
You have a very nice collection of Allach and I always enjoy seeing them.
Thanks
Rich
Yes, indeed a beautiful piece. I have a Foxl on the way so I'll post that when he arrives.
Gents,
Glad you enjoyed the doe, that's what it's all about.
Tristan - Looking forward to your new piece!
Here's something you might enjoy - an early, lifesize Meissen pelican swallowing a fish. This one's up for auction and has a reserve of $50,000. heh, anyone care to place a bid? Man, you could build a nice collection of Allach for that kind of dough.
If I had money to burn, I wouldn't mind owning it, he'd fit right in with the some of the other creatures we have around the house. At least it doesn't cost anything to have a look...
Best!
B~
Bill, I thought we were in dire economic times, but obviously not everybody! I can't believe that would sell at that price.
Now down to earth, but just as beautiful, I think....a 1938 Rosenthal small vase that cost E25!
Foxl still on his way.
Tristan,
Now that's a honey of a deal, sweet!
B~
Gary and Bill, those are Incredible deer figurines you've scored. Good deer sculptures are so hard to find, but you've both managed to acquire the best there is. Congrats and thanks for the great images!
So I haven't had anything new and relevant to share here lately, but the collecting gods finally smiled on me this past week and yesterday this beauty arrived at my doorstep.
Just look at the detail:
This is a really nice example of a Vienna Bronze by the Bergman bronze foundry, which began operations in Vienna in 1900, under the directorship of Franz Xavier Bergman. I estimate it dates around the 1900's perhaps as late as the 1920s. It's pretty large sized as Vienna Bronzes go, measuring 7 1/8 inch tall without including the height of that eye-catching marble base. Most Vienna bronze horses you'll find are more in the 3 inch range. It is marked with the signature 'B in a vase' mark that appears on Bergman bronzes, but the actual sculptor is, alas, anonymous. The figure is a bit stylized, with the lean, willowy build common to many horse sculptures of the period.
Vienna bronzes are generally known for their high level of detail and enameled finish. Sometimes figures would be painted with almost opaque colors to the point where you couldn't tell it was a bronze figure without picking it up. Other times, as here, the enamels are translucent enough that you can still see the glow of the metal underneath.
I've wanted a Bergman bronze for a very long time and am so excited to have lucked into this one. They're highly collected and ones this size can be very expensive, particularly with the Bergman imprimatur.
Anyhow, enough waxing enthusiastic from me. Hope you guys enjoyed!
T.
A beautiful beast to add to your stable!
Tiberius,
Always a pleasure to see what our friends turn up next, this impressive bronze equine figure being just so, congratulations! I think this is the first Bergmann in the thread and am glad you posted this fine example...
I've looked at Bergmann's animal bronzes for a few years and know finding a nice piece for a reasonable price can be a daunting task. His figures are unique and highly sought after and command very healthy prices. It's great to find any of his bronzes for a reasonable sum, many that I've seen at auction have sold for several thousands of dollars. Case in point, this great old lizard recently sold on eBay for 4K - by no means a paltry sum. However, this model is rather large, almost life-size at about nine inches long by six inches wide. It literally ranks with the best of all the lizard sculptures in any medium, that I've ever seen. Most of the Bergmann lizards are fairly tiny, at a shade over two inches long and can range from $500-700 for mint-conditioned examples.
A little more background history for our guests...
Franz Xaver Bergmann (1861–1936) was the owner of a Viennese foundry who produced numerous patinated and cold-painted bronze Oriental, erotic and animal figures, the latter often humanized or whimsical, humorous objects d'art. Noted for his detailed and colorful work, and signing either a 'B' in an urn-shaped cartouche or 'Nam Greb' - 'Bergman' in reverse. These marks were used to disguise his identity on erotic works.
His father Franz Bergmann was a professional chaser from Gablonz/Bohemia who came to Vienna and founded a small bronze factory in 1860. His son Franz Xaver Bergmann (1861 – 1936) inherited the company and opened a new foundry in 1900. Many of the bronzes from the 1900s were still based on designs from his fathers workshop. He was not a sculptor himself as often described wrongfully. There were many anonymous sculptors, hired temporarily by the workshops. At the turn of the 19th/20th Century there were about fifty workshops producing Vienna Bronzes.
'Cold painted bronze' refers to pieces cast in Vienna and then decorated in several layers with so called dust paint; the know-how for the mix of this kind of paint has been lost. The color was not fired hence "cold painted". The painting was carried out mainly by women working at home, a typical cottage industry.
Sensuous poses of young women in the Art Nouveau style were disguised by a covering that revealed all when a button was pushed or a lever moved. Often carefully sculpted animals, such as bears, could be opened to reveal an erotic figure inside.
Lost-wax casting sometimes called by the French name of cire perdue (from the Latin cera perduta) is the process by which a metal (such as silver, gold, brass or bronze) sculpture is cast from an artist's sculpture. Intricate works can be achieved by this method, primarily depending on the carver's skills. In industrial uses, the modern process is called investment casting. An ancient practice, the process today varies from foundry to foundry, but the steps which are usually used in casting small bronze sculptures in a modern bronze foundry are generally quite standardized.
Other names for the process include "lost mould," which recognizes that other materials besides wax can be used, including tallow, resin, tar, and textile; and "waste wax process" or "waste mould casting", because the mould is destroyed to unveil the cast item. Other methods of casting include open casting, bivalve mould, and piece mould. Lost-wax casting was widespread in Europe until 18th century, when a piece-mold process came to predominate.
Best!
B~
2/2
This is a coloured Lying Fox Terrier by Karner, one of a set of six such dogs, coloured/white, sitting/lying/standing....four down, two to go!
..
...
Tristan,
That's going to be a first-class set of six! The decoration of those two pups is truly a case of "less being more," beautiful, understated painting.
Thanks and best of luck finishing off the pack..!
B~
This is an interesting Rosenthal piece (1935), Reichs-Siegerpokal to the National Grand Champion of the Poultry Breeders Asociation...doesn't sound very sexy, but this is a nice, quality piece of porcelain!
Tristan,
Wow! A great find and I like it a lot. Congratulations and I have to say it, as rare as hens teeth.
Tristan,
I agree with Mikee, a great find, something extra-special and out of the ordinary.
These prizes and exclusive contract pieces are tough to locate and make for peerless additions to our collections. Many times these examples are exceedingly rare, having been produced only in very limited numbers for special events and occasions. Compared to the amount of Allach pieces available to collectors, I daresay these are much more difficult to acquire.
A super addition to your outstanding collection, thanks for letting us take a look.
Best regards!
Bill
Thanks, Bill. You and others on this Forum have helped me to open my eyes to some of the aesthetically beautiful things that have been captured in porcelain. Of course, this is partly (or was originaly) driven by the historical connections of some of these pieces, but I am now looking at them in an autonomous light, not quite 'Art for Art's Sake' but certainly standing on their own merits.
Here is a Karner piece coming up for aucttion soon that I know you will appreciate...hope the link works!
http://www.lot-tissimo.com/de/i/5375715/p/33/ If not look for Kunst & Auktionshaus Kasten, 7th July Auction.
Tristan
Looks like we are watching the same stuff, I have my eye on a few Kärner pieces that come up in a search on that site, I like the live bidding, makes it very easy.
Gary
Nice pokal.
Good luck with them ,Gary..hope to see them from you on site.
Tristan & Gary,
Professor K's sculpture, "Victorious Homecoming," is always in great demand, it's so easy to why. Talk about a 'dynamic-presence,' at roughly 20 inches long these larger models are most impressive in person, especially when painted to perfection. This lioness and Kärner's "Tiger with Peacock," have to be among the finest of all the 'big-cats' fired in porcelain.
Gary and I have discussed this topic for some time since we both have and enjoy our own, personal kitty-cats.
Why is it so difficult to find good porcelain cats, especially the big-boys..? We agree that it's a combination of anatomy and if painted, the eyes, patterns and above all the area where the whiskers are to be found. I know I blabbed on about this earlier in the thread, but I think it's worth a qick re-hash. It's either a toy model, or a work of art.
Gary, should you be lucky enough to win this 'big-kitty,' I'd be open to any number of barters!
Best of luck and good collecting to all !
W~
Oh, that Karner Lion with the Impala was a masterpiece. Would be a prize in any collection of porcelain, I'm sure!
My latest equine acquisition is nowhere near as fine as that, but I'm pleased with it nonetheless. It is a piece made by the Porzellanfabrik Fasold & Stauch. The company operated 1903-1973, and this mark was used from 1913 to 1972. ( Info found here:
http://www.borzoiart.com/hersteller/bock_wallendorf_all.htm )
It measures a goodly-sized 11 1/2 inches tall. Alas, it is not signed by the sculptor. I do have another smaller equestrian piece by this company but it's stored away at present and I don't seem to have a photograph of it handy. The style of the horse sculpt is quite similar though so I wouldn't be surprised if it was the work of the same sculptor.
Anyhow, enjoy.
T.
Tiberius,
Thanks for sharing your latest addition. At almost a foot tall, that's a fairly good size. Another pony in the stable!
I wanted to ask if you had any horses by Fritz Diller or Max Fritz in your collection?
Things seem to have settled to a slower, hotter, summer snail's-pace, with the occasional odd piece popping up. I recently found this Meissen commemorative plate, a scene from the first battle of the First World War. Storming the Belgian fortress of Liege.(Lüttich) A triumphant German infantry soldier standing on top of one of the enormous, shattered casemates, on his way to invade northern France, August 7, 1914.
Wishing everyone a great Fourth of July holiday, best!
W~
Things are quiet here - lack of funds, mainly - but I picked this piece up (I'm sure Tiberius will have it!). 1936 'Hannibal' by Albert Hussmann, Rosenthal no. 1609. The only horse I can find of this name is the UK 1804 Derby winner, but he obviously has some major ranking in the horse world!
Tristan,
I've always admired this particular sculpture, it certainly conveys a great sense of movement with the mane flying behind him like that. I believe this model was also manufactured in an all-black version as well as in bronze, and possibly in different sizes, too? The works of Albert Hinrich Hussmann are very collectable, his pieces are quite popular at auction and normally fetch a pretty-penny.
Truly a lovely animal, good choice ...
Best!
B~
Hello gents,
Bill, alas the two Fritzes have continued to elude me in my collecting. If I've ever come across one that I can afford it's usually at a bad time for me financially.
Max sculpted a particularly magnificent large leaping horse for Rosenthal (and by that I mean that all four legs are off the ground and it's only supported by a tree stump under the belly) that I've seen from time to time. Generally quite expensive of course, and rare to find in undamaged condition. I do wonder how many didn't survive the kilns!
Here's an example that sold at auction:
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/9965813Tristan, I have seen that bust of Hannibal by Hussmann many times, but I've always held out for the enormous full-body version of that sculpt, which comes up every so often. The bust does have a lot of character, though, and I would be inclined to pick up one of the black/bronze colored versions for the right price. Nice addition to your collection.
My most recent equine purchase is a very fine modern piece made by a small, privately-run studio in the UK. Not suitable for this thread, though!
Regards,
T.
Good Tiberius!
On all counts this pony could have been sculpted by Kärner, man is it sharp. Terrific dimensions too.
Super decoration on this fine looking animal - another plus! Yes, by all means something I hope you can add to your collection once you can hurdle the finances. I think most of us are in that big-******** boat ..? .. must be a KdF cruise? ... all aboard..!
This rubbish economy isn't helping things much either? It certainly makes things more difficult to choose from what to buy these days? But then again ... we all deserve to treat ourselves to a "Grade-A, choice, fancy tidbit every now and again, and naturally, as funds permit, no? it's good for the soul, man ...
Well mates, cheers all .. here's to each of us finding something great on a "low-budget.."
see: Kinks - 1979
W.
Bill and others of this thread!
What a amazing display of beauty!
Thanks to all for sharing and I must go back to the start
of this thread and focus on this!
Unreal this stuff even survived!
PVON
This may be the wrong place for it, but you guys know me as someone squirrelly.
So, when I found this baby on e-ban, even though it was post war (see the maker mark), I wanted it and managed to get it at a not bad price at all.
So, the new guy joins his other squirrel friends in the Great White North.
The maker is Kaiser and, as you can see, it also states 'W Germany', a clue for me that this is post war
John
T, Tristan, Bill,
All very nice and some great pieces you guys have added to your collections. Congrats.
John, Nice looking squirrel. Nothing wrong with Kaiser, a few of us have this manufacture in our collections as well. Thanks for showing it.
John Z,
That's a fine squirrel rendering no matter what time-frame! Also the fact that you got it at a reasonable price makes it even that much sweeter ... nice .
Is there any way to use a Luft dagger as a prop and make him look like the '35-41 Eickhorn logo?
Best!
W~
Porcelain Patrons,
I recently picked this up for a friend whose grand-daughter's interested in hound dogs. Saw it only once before and can't recall the sculptor or year of production, any ideas? All aside a good Nymphenburg, "mother-hound and whelps." The poor girl looks quite resigned though concerned that her pups eat, all four paws busy, mit die Kinder, ja? I especially like the little-tyke who has his nose stuck into the overturned food bowl, nice touch. Small at about 3 1/4 x 5 3/4 inches, the well-detailed puppies are about half the length of your thumb. A fun little unit.
Best!
WW~
Ps Hannes, correction ... make that a Luft-mini
Allach has been thin on the ground, or at least of the affordable kind. Some of the prices asked on eaby are ludicrous!
However, in thining out my tunics I have managed to exchange for a Sitting Coloured Foxl...now have 5 out of the 6 Foxls, missing a Sitting White example.
Tristan,
I agree that the reserve and 'buy it now' prices are laughable, bordering on insane. And on top of that many of them are damaged and don't even include the missing pieces. I love it when they say, oh that should be an easy fix, ha!
Can't wait to see the whole pack when you get that last one.
Congrats and best regards!
Bill
Thanks, Bill...maybe for Christmas!
Congrats, Tristan, on your latest find!
Also, Bill, that Nymphenburg hound dog piece you posted earlier is a real treat. The sculptor captured the attentiveness of the mother dog perfectly.
I'll echo the sentiment that good calibre pieces have been difficult to find at reasonable prices of late.
Good luck to all our collecting friends!
Bill, I don't believe I've seen this one before, but very nice indeed.
Tristan, Congratulations! A real beauty and hope you find the one your looking for to complete the series.
Thank you both for always posting your lastest finds. A treat indeed!
Thanks guys...after this week-end I hope to have another piece to post. Not Allach but Rosenthal...keeping my fingers crossed!
I'm afraid I missed out on the Rosenthal piece, but picked up this interesting 15'' statue of 'Der Alte Fritz'; non-maker marked but the production number of 2640 above the Roman numeral II.
The detail is well short of Allach standard but enough to see his breast and sash Eagle Order Star.
The piece looks completely original and unrestored and is very impressive.
Perhaps early 1920s? Any other info would be much appreciated.
...
Tristan,
Wish I could help you identify the maker but I can't remember seeing this particular sculpture of 'Old Fritz' and his two dogs before. I've been looking for a good model of the King of Prussia for years but many seem to fall short in detail and/or quality. Your latest addition seems to have captured the best of all worlds. The artist portrays the essence of the warrior-king in all respects. His stance, facial details and accoutrements make him easily recognizable, and the addition of his greyhounds is a fine, finishing touch.
Hannes,
The Schwarzburg running fox logo is synonymous with German porcelain of the highest quality. Even though it's not by Allach per say, the famous artist who first sculpted this squirrel in 1910, Wilhelm Neuhäuser, went on to work for them, which is just as good to me. This has to be one of your best squirrel figures to date, quite elegant. A great Eichörnchen to complement your "Eickhorn" collection.
Many thanks to both of you gentlemen for sharing your outstanding additions with us.
Bill
Thanks, Bill, and to John for that superb squirrel!
Gentlemen,
I'd like to share a recent find with you, a pair of unique, old German wall plates. I guess you could call these two tribal warriors the original "Alte Kämpfer," forerunners of the SA, heh ...
The illustrations are hand-finished transfers under glaze, much like good Mettlach beer steins.
I have to thank our good friend Wotan for helping me translate the sayings, the second one was a bit tricky. Dankeschön mein Herr.
Hope you'll enjoy them.
Best!
Bill
"Komt ein feind
in dieses land
so nehmen wir das
schwert zur hand"
"Comes a foe
into this land
so we will take
the sword to hand"
"Ihr feint herbei
Den schädel hau ich
juch entzwei"
"You, foes, come here,
I'll split your skulls in two"
BTW Thanks to you, Wotan, and many others on this forum for keeping this history and heritage alive. Congrats on these cool plates WWII.
Amazing that the colours remain so vibrant after the passge of so many years...scary guys!
Tristan, Sorry you didn't get it, but sure looks like it turned out all right, a fabulous piece!
John, I've always wanted a porcelain squirrel and If I would be so lucky that would be the one. very nice!
Bill, Nice find! If you recall I posted a plate of mine some time ago that I think is in the same style and part of the same series. I'm sorry I couldn't find the old thread but did find a picture. Not dishwasher safe that's for sure.
Mikee, that guy looks very similarly dressed and armed to the 1943 Allach Landsknecht mit Zweihander figure by Richard Forster (photo courtesy Dennis Porell book).
Thanks Tristan, would love to own that one!
T,
I'll take one of those Förster Landsknecht models too!
The painted decoration on that is superb, wow!
Mikee,
I totally missed or forgot about your Landsknecht plate, dohh! I agree that it has to be from the same series, no doubt. Have you been able to identify the maker? The logo looks like a small oil-lamp, correct? Have you seen any others from this set? I'd be more than pleased to hear anything you could add about these colorful, interesting units.
Best!
Bill
Bill,
I haven't seen anymore besides ours and haven't researched that lamp mark as yet. I'm terribly sorry I couldn't be of more assistance.
John,
Nice catch, I like it!
John,
Truly an amazing variety of Eichhörnchen in your collection, all high-quality sculptures and each a pleasure to look at. I see many of the biggest names in twentieth-century, pocelain manufacturing represented in this fine group - Meissen, Rosenthal, Allach, Schwarzburg. The only thing even more impressive than those names are the artist's renowned surnames - Esser, Kärner, Neuhäuser - each in his way a giant in the field of animal sculpture, in the German decorative arts. Great stuff JZ, did you find the artist who did the bisque model by 'Kaiser?'
Very, very nice!
W~
T,
Have you seen any others from this set?
Bill
This ones on ebay Germany.
Dean,
I didn't see your latest post until just now ... however, I did see the plate up for auction, and your tip is most appreciated, gracias.
Yes, definitely from the same series of plates as those Mikee and I have in our collections. The image on this plate portrays an early Germanic tribal hunter and his rather large, best friend. He's telling the beast that they're united as one against the enemy, in this case, the deer and wild pigs. Looks like the old 'berserker' has an Eickhorn hunting model 1433 on his belt.
Wish I could have gotten it but went after an Art Deco owl and a Kärner dog, both from 1920. By chance, did you get it? I'd be pleased to hear that you or one of our other members did.
Recently, I happened to be looking for marks from the "Münchner Werkstätten für Keramic und Kunst," when I spotted the same marking that I asked about identifying earlier. Since we were unfamiliar with it, I thought this would be of interest ... that is, at least to Mikee and me, heh ...
Here's a so-so photo of that marking, not the greatest but good enough for our purposes. The marks were attributed the firm of Villeroy & Boch, or Mettlach.
I haven't been able to verify this yet, but at least we have someplace to start - same oil lamp logo, gesetzlich geschützt, patent-mark and pattern number. I'd like to find this listed again elsewhere to substantiate the identification.
In the meantime, good collecting to one and all.
Best!
Bill
John, Wow! Fantastic collection you have. I've been looking for a nice squirrel.
Dang! I wish I had seen this thread earlier because I would've jumped on that plate in a heart beat. I hope one of our members snatched it up. I seem to be missing out on a lot of threads and I don't know why.
Bill, Always interested in marks and such, Great job is in order and exactly what I was told as well, Mettlach. Have a look at this old thread I finally found,
Saar Plate which seems like yesterday. Thanks Bill.
By chance, did you get it? I'd be pleased to hear that you or one of our other members did.
Not me Bill. The seller wouldn't accept paypal, a definate roadblock here on ebay america unless you have a friend in Germany to help out.
Someone was lucky enough to snagged it for 1 euro + shipping.
Mikee,
Thanks for posting the link to that thread, those are without a doubt some lovely items from your collection. It's funny that we tend to forget all the wonderful things we got to see in some of these older posts. I think it's good to link those together like this, lest we fail to remember. Oh, and yes, how the time flies!
It's always pleasurable being able to add some small bit of pertinent info, someday it might be helpful to one of our members - especially good if it's one of those stalwarts who always contribute throughout the forums. My hat's off to all of you gentleman - helping each other is always key in this hobby.
I spoke to a couple of friends earlier today who are both pretty big into porcelain and they agreed that the plates definitely looked like Mettlach. We compared the pastel color palette to several, early VB/Mettlach, incised, decorated beersteins and found them to be nearly identical. I have to write this one other old collector to see if he might have some other photos or references on the subject that he could share?
Thanks again for all the input fellas.
Best!
B~
Ps John, we'll have to find a nice squirrel for Mr. Mike
Dean, your post was before mine, sorry you didn't get it either, dang.
Found a Sitting White to complete the Pack.
Them dogs sure do have nice surroundings.
Tristan,
You sure know how to keep a promise, you said you'd get them all and there they are! I admire your determination and resolve good sir, you are without a doubt the 'alpha-dog' of Allach.
Congratulations and thanks for sharing your latest find.
A recent addition too, a (dwarf) Min-Pinscher by Theodor Kärner, for Rosenthal.
This example is one of Kärner's earliest contributions to the repertoire of Rosenthal animal figurines. He left the Nymphenburg studios after World War I and immediately started working for Rosenthal, late 1918. The bottom of the decorative, elongated-oval base is marked with the company's 1920 logo, impressed/incised pattern number 42, and the artist's name, T KARNER.
What I find striking about this piece is the gilded base. We're all familiar with the golden highlights that decorate plates, teacups, figures and so on. That being said, this is the first time I've seen or owned an example with the entire base finished off in a bronze-gold color. The finish is so different from the opaque white glass, that it looks as though the dog is actually sitting on a piece of aged, gilded metal. The finish, patina and condition of the base is unbelievable for its age, there are no areas where the gilding has been over-zealously buffed thin or even scratched. It lends much to the overall Art Deco feeling.
The little pooch looks every bit the tough guy ... maybe small, but fearless and resolute.
The detail to the head and face is pure Kärner, he simply brings these things alive with a master's touch. His keen sense of animal anatomy, structure, proportion and balance is in a league all its own, and if the lighting and shadows are just right, it adds even more pep and zing to his fine zoological sculptures.
Best!
Bill
Tristan,
I don't mind stating this again because your collection is fantastic and as always a real pleasure to see. Congrats on your lastest treasure.
That's a nice piece Bill! I love paintings done on porcelain, it doesn't matter type as long as it's done well, so I've seen a few over the years. The artist did a real nice job that's for sure. That's as real looking as it gets IMO.
The fun never ends in this thread, it seems. Such great finds. Great work on completing your pack of handsome canines, Tristan! Bill, that little Karner pooch is very elegant and the gilding sets off the white porcelain very nicely.
It's been a while since I've contributed, but I've finally picked up a sort-of relevant equine to share. I'm very excited because this is one of my 'Holy Grail Horses' and I was able to buy him at a local auction for much less than the market price.
This hefty lad (10" x 13") is a Bing & Grondahl Belgian draft horse stallion, made in Denmark. It's a later piece, with the backstamp dating it as being made between 1970-1983. It was sculpted by Svend Jespersen (1895 - 1985). B&G porcelain is typically finished in muted, almost pastel colors with a thin, milky glaze, giving the wares a tell-tale soft coloring. This style of coloring, however, does not diminish the quality of the sculpt, which is excellent. You can see the buckles on the halter and surcingle (chest band), as will as the braids in his mane and the ripple of powerful muscles.
As I said, I'm thrilled to finally add him to my herd, where he'll occupy a position of pride for a long time to come (at least until I find my next Holy Grail Horse!)
T.
Thanks all for your comments...and for more interesting pieces from Bill and Tiberius! The thread rolls on!!
My latest purchase when I was in Germany. Olympic Torch Bearer, 24.5 cm high. No manufacturer name, but has mold number 12594 on bottom. Jim
Gents,
Great seeing everyone's latest finds ... I guess what they say is true, when it rains, it pours.
Tiberius, that's a beauty. I've seen this model and was quite impressed, it looks like one of those fabulous paintings by Paul Casberg. You can really feel the solidity and strength of this animal, a powerhouse of energy. The braided mane gives it a certain touch of class and elegance, an effective counter-balance to all those bulging muscles and sinew. Can't wait to see your next "HGH..."
Jim, Your Olympic Torchbearer Mod.12594, was produced by the Seltmann Weiden company. There's a small flame insert missing from the top of the torch, do you still have that? A nice Art Deco piece.
I thought some might like to see another example of Willi Münch Khe's small, slender-legged animals? We saw some of his fine work pictured and mentioned earlier in the thread, fawns and donkeys I believe?
I haven't seen this model often and feel lucky to have scooped it up, as there's a nice early 1920 Rosenthal mark under the base of this fawn cleaning itself. Often, the delicate balance of his subjects is his trademark style and technique, making them easy to spot.
Hope you might enjoy and good collecting ...
Bill
2/2
Bill, didn't know it had an insert, I bought it just like it is. Jim
Jim,
Yes, I'm fairly certain this is the same model as yours, no?
In the second photo it looks like it's in a bisque-finish, but I think that's the same one too?
Bill
2/2
Bill, it is, I thought it was a candle holder when I bought the statue. Now I know that it is missing the flame. Probably hard to find one. Jim
Jim,
I'd imagine a small birthday-type candle would certainly do the trick? If you'd like I'll keep my eye open for one of these models for you, possibly a damaged, less-expensive one where you could salvage the flames from?
Gary Southgate sent me this photo from a recent militaria-show in Kassel, Germany. A splendid porcelain figure by Allach that was offered for sale, of Richard Förster's Landsknecht, a mediaeval mercenary armed with his massive "double-hander" sword. Not a large piece by any means but ever so impressive, rare and expensive. It's not hard to see why. For those who haven't seen this model pictured in the recently published Allach books by Dennis Porell, (see page 75 of this thread for a painted version) you might not get to see one any time soon at the local gunshow and even seldom at auction. Most definitely a "big-ticket" item, not something I'll be adding to my menagerie in the near future, but I thought some might like to have a look at this extremely fine sculpture.
Best!
Bill
Jim,
I'd imagine a small birthday-type candle would certainly do the trick? If you'd like I'll keep my eye open for one of these models for you, possibly a damaged, less-expensive one where you could salvage the flames from?
Best!
Bill
Would appreciate it Bill.
Bill...to say nothing of the other coloured Allach pieces hiding away there!!! Wow, some grouping!
Thanks for sharing that photo, Bill. That's really a fine Landsknecht figure, for sure! I confess, though, that my eyes immediately went to the Goebel mounted Royal Life Guard figure behind - primarily because I have one as well. Vast price differential between the that and the Allach, though!
Also, I've just purchased a rare porcelain horse piece that I am very excited to add to my collection. Well wishes for safe shipping are appreciated!
T.
Tristan, Tiberius,
Glad you enjoyed Gary's snap, there's nothing like a bit of inspiration to fuel our own interests, pursuits and dreams. I can honestly say that my heart-rate goes up a few notches every time I look at work like this. There's nothing quite like seeing one of these military/equestrian figures in perfect condition, and even better than that, having one or two to admire in our own collections!
Looking forward to seeing your new horse T, may the postal-gods smile on its safe journey and arrival ...
Even though money has been particularly tight this past year, between us, we've still turned up some mighty fine pieces. This Meissen "Fischotter," will most likely be my last buy of 2012, though, I've wanted one of Max's sleek little critters for years and it was well worth the wait. Max Esser produced this sculpture in 1931, and it comes in fine white as well as Böttger-Steinzeug. Good Steinzeug is a much-refined stoneware, something they discovered just before perfecting the formula for "white gold," back around 1707. The Böttger recipe was shelved for the most part, but much later there came a renewed interest in this fine casting material, during the first quarter of the 20th century. What do you boys make of the red-brown stone?
There's a great feel to this lithe, intelligent animal, such graceful curves to its wonderful shape. The expressive face, posture of the forearms and paw structure is akin to looking at a photograph, striking realism to my eye. Master Esser also produced works that were quite abstract and modern. He studied under some brilliant instructors. Please enjoy...
I'd like to take a moment to wish everyone the best of holidays. Hopefully, the New Year brings lots of good collecting experiences to all of us!
Bill
Bill, The intelligence of the animal comes through so well in that representation and a worthy close to the year!
Best wishes to all for 2013 and happy collecting!
Bill, that is a great Esser piece. I've always appreciated the wet-clay finish of Bottger wares. That dull luster works really well in context of the animal's water-soaked pelt and the waves on the base. Very nice way to close out your collecting year and glad that you can finally add him to your menagerie.
By the way, It seems that your appeal to the postal gods was well received.
The Fed Ex man delivered this beauty to my door yesterday.
This is a Rosenthal piece, dating to the 1950's. It was originally sculpted by Fritz Heidenreich in 1948, and is titled 'Araber' ('Arabian' - though it doesn't really resemble that breed type). It is cast in bisque porcelain with a clear satin glaze. Unlike most horse sculptures produced by Rosenthal, this piece has a raw, artistic look in that the surface detail isn't perfectly smoothed out. Instead, there are many sharply defined sculpting and tool marks still visible. It's a nice size, measuring about 10 inches tall at the eartips.
Apologies for the number of photos, but this piece really needs to be seen from various angles.
Happy holidays and best wishes for successful collecting to all!
T.
T n' T,
Let's hear it for the gods, yaay!! ...
Nice to see your fine unit arrived safe and unharmed, that's a good-looking piece.
Thanks for the crisp photos as I've never seen this model before, it would go well together with Hussmann's bust of Hannibal. (pg. 73)
I really admire the smart way Heidenreich did the base, the oak leaf and laurel-sprig combination is an excellent touch. This sculpture would make for a solid central-piece when viewed together with any of the various German medals, decorations and awards that share the same leaf-motif.
The finish reminds me of the two large, semi-matte sports figures produced by Obermaier/Rosenthal in the early thirties. It lends a much softer feeling to the subject, quite different from a cold, high-gloss coating.
It certainly seems as though you're ending the year on a high-note too, and I hope your luck will continue throughout 2013, as well to all our friends here on the forums.
Best!
B~
Tristan,
That
is a good way to start the New Year, congrats on your find! The four plates truly make for an awesome display and would grace any kind of WWII collection. Most non-collectors would have no idea of what they're looking at - maybe that's one reason why any TR porcelain that has survived at all? Mute testiment to history, the foundation of all that's the present..?
Here's hoping 2013 will bring you lot's more fine things that you'll share with us, thanks mate!
Here's another piece of Steinzeug by Meissen, a very simple or even minimalist, Art Deco bear. Possibly a cub getting his/her first fishing lesson, just looking and waiting ...
The solid mass and single color of the Steinzeug seems to lend itself well to that modernist, or futuristic, Deco look. Quite a different feel to the stark white bears in the second photo -a pair of full-grown grizzlies or browns having a slight disagreement. Realism at its finest, portrayed by Max Hermann Fritz, a fine pair by any standards.
Please enjoy!
B~
2/2
Those are some great bear sculptures, Bill. I'm especially impressed by the power of the second piece.
Just catching up with my latest porcelain ponies.
A large gray stallion by Cortendorf of Germany, probably circa 1950-1960, which was also made in a smaller sized version. Cortendorf was later purchased by Goebel. The style reminds me of Adolf Rohring's sculpture for Allach.
And speaking of Goebel, I was finally able to lay hands on this beautiful piece sculpted by Bochmann, dated 1969. Goebel released this piece in bisque white, matte bay, and this fine gloss bay coloring - which is the rarest to come by and my favorite of the three finishes. The glaze really adds richness to the sculpt, I think.
Regards,
T.
I don't add anything to this thread because quite frankly I don't know enough about it. That being said, this is an amazing education on these fine pieces of art.
To all involved in this 32 page thread I would like to say thank you for posting these beautiful items!!!
Absolutely stunning!!!
Rich
Thanks Bill, and to Rich for his kind comments. We ALL have LOTS to learn!
...and more horses from Tiberius. Lovely pieces.
I have added another Karner horse to the collection. I cannot afford the Karner Allach jumping horse but this is very similar in style, if not in rarity and desirability, the main difference being in the tail length
It is a Rosenthal 1940, model 773, not as detailed as Allach.
One point...as I say, from my Rosenthal book the logo points to 1940, yet Karner was still making Hussar figures for Allach in 1942! Can anyone help with that apparant discrepancy? Certainly all his animal figures seem to be prior to 1940, and I wonder if he moved to Rosentahl then but completed some later Allach figures as a one-off??
Tristan,
That's a very handsome Rosenthal horse, one I'd love to add to my herd at some point. Nice find with a good early mark.
Speaking off the top of my head, I wonder if it's possible that Karner worked for both companies at the same time. I don't see why this wouldn't be possible unless Karner had an exclusive contract with either. Hopefully someone can provide a more knowledgeable answer.
T.
Great additions to your collections guys.
Bill, I like the slender and detailed lines, the nice detail to the whiskers,nose,eyes and ears and paws, they really stand out on this one. I like the grizzly sculptor. it's fantastic IMO. I've seen the painted versions of your Grizzly before and although I prefer painted porcelain your Grizzly is far better than the painted versions IMO.
T, Well worth the wait, I'd be on pins and needles waiting for it to arrive. I like the rustic look of the chisel marks and the design of the base is brilliant. It's a very nice piece and your right it doesn't resemble Arabian, but it wouldn't bother me that's for sure.
True story, Sorry can't divulge a name, but while in Italy a few years back I visited a famous and very talented Italian sculptor at his home in the country side. We had a great lunch with some wine, "well, okay a lot of wine" and he invited me to have a peek at his latest sculpture that he was working on, which was almost complete. It was sculpted of white carrera marble, a massive and beautiful piece of art work. Before I knew it, he hands me a hammer and chisel and we begin to chip away at this massive beauty and as I was working on the facial area, all I could think about was making one wrong move and knocking it's nose off. This marble sculpture now sets in ROME. Minus it's nose! lol.
Tristan, I love your plates and the Karner horse is always a treat to see. Thanks for showing them!
T, Maybe because the molds were kept at the factory and used at different times, exclusive rights?
Thank you all! Kidding, the nose, still intact thank God!
Thanks for the thoughts on Karner. One further interesting point is that in Allach figures, post 1938, he signs himself 'Prof.', but in this Rosenthal piece (1940) that distinction is absent...interesting!
Always interesting with this stuff but again probably molds used at different times?
Fellow Collectors,
Always a pleasure seeing what my mates have turned up recently, as well as reading your comments and thoughts.
Tiberius, that gray-dapple horse does looks like both August Göhring's and Adolf Rohring's rearing stallions and the color-scheme puts me in mind of Kärner's earlier horse models for Nymphenburg. The best of all worlds, hard to beat that. Compliments on your two new acquisitions.
Rich, good to hear you're enjoying the thread, I know my colleagues will enjoy hearing that, thanks.
Tristan, that 773 is a fine horse too, really a lovely sculpture. K's carried over his "Nymphenburg-style" of support base, those big splashy kind which I thought were outstanding for their time by far, they were pretty much instantly recognizable.
Kärner first carved and introduced Model 773 in 1933-34, and was then under contract to Rosenthal. They basically owned the figure and in future could reproduce it any time they saw fit. (as demand called) Therefore, your 1940 edition may be a second, third or fourth run ..? maybe there were earlier than 1940 production runs? But that explains the later date while the professor was employed with Allach. I'm fairly certain that was pretty much an "exclusive contract," with the boys in black. Maybe he was allowed to consult, but I don't think he actually produced works for other companys during his time at Allach? Can anyone say for certain?
Mikee, that had to be a very memorable experience, any photos you could share? It's great watching a good artist at work, they make everything look so damn easy!
Best regards!
Bill
Thanks Bill, that makes sense...I cannot see Heini allowing any of his pet schemes to be potentially compromised by other Firms!
Wanted to share a recent find ...
An Art Deco falcon by Hutschenreuther, say mid-1920s, judging by the mark. These are found having the additional line under the logo, "Abteilung für Kunst." Not sure of the sculptor just yet, though if I had to choose, I'd say Professor Fritz Klee..? I've checked every resource I know of and only found one other example, a painted model. They couldn't tell me anything about the piece, but one thing they knew for certain was that they wanted a lot of money for it, heh! Any info identifying the artist would be most appreciated.
Hope everyone's well and having good luck with your own collections.
Best!
Bill
Bill
Don't worry about finding one I had an accident and lost a few valuable pieces of my collection and this was one.
Jim
Jim,
I'd imagine a small birthday-type candle would certainly do the trick? If you'd like I'll keep my eye open for one of these models for you, possibly a damaged, less-expensive one where you could salvage the flames from?
Best!
Bill
Would appreciate it Bill.
Jim,
Sorry to hear about your misfortune, I hope nothing happened to that beautiful Meissen hawk?
I've had a couple that came to Humpty-Dumpty endings too ...
it always bites and leaves a miserable feeling!
B~
Bill, the hawk is still alive. Jim
Tristan,
A bit late in response but here is an associate of your statue of "Der Alte Fritz", "The Falconer"
Regards,
John Pepera
John P,
Glad that you finally got Bochmann's falconer for your collection.
It can be a daunting task finding this model in perfect condition as its a complex, delicate and well-detailed study. There are so many nuanced aspects of this sculpture to be aware of, the average seller might not even know that there's a problem or missing part and describe it as being perfect. For those who might want to own one of these falconers, always check those feather tips, straps, plumes and especially the dagger for chips and damage.
A great piece to add to any collecting room.
Best!
Bill
Hi John...that is indeed a beautiful piece!
You know the old saying, "when it rains it pours," right..?
I recently posted an early Deco falcon by Hutschenreuther and now this unusual dragon/chimera figurine by the same company, also 1920's vintage. Most often it's fairly easy to research a piece of porcelain, especially those with maker marks and/or a model number. Certainly we all enjoy knowing the artist's name and background, the initial production date and proper title of our figures. This is the second Hutschenreuther example where I drew a complete blank, used every search-method I could think of but, nada ...
What I can tell you about the piece is that it's loosely based on the figure of a mythological Japanese beast, a "Kirin." However, in this depiction we can see a heavy European influence in the shape of the chimera, more of a dragon that westerners are familiar with. A small delicate unit at less than 5 3/4 inches tall, it has a good amount of detail and the pose seems to suspend the monster in mid-air. The clean, hard lines of the tiered column set up a fine, unassuming base for the powerful flow and line of the scale-covered, horned beastie. For those who might remember, it could be a creature right out of an early Ray Harryhausen movie ...
Something out of the ordinary which I hope you'll enjoy.
Best!
Bill
Bill:
Keep them coming... I love 'em all.
John
JZ,
Will see what I can do mate!
W~
Yes Bill, you do come up with interesting items, plus the knowledge to back them up!
To celebrate going back to work after 53 weeks of unemployment, I treated myself to something for the collection ...
A Meissen Art Deco barn owl by Max Esser, introduced shortly after World War I, 1921. Strange but magnificent birds.
Best!
Bill
Love the talons on that work Bill.
Bill,
I've seen that porcelain dragon before, but can't remember where or who produced it. I know it's not, but the kid in me sees Puff the magic dragon. Meissen isn't cheap and that Owl is a real nice one! Congratulation on finding them and a new job. Best!
Bill
Very nice! Dragon is very detailed! A looker!
The Talons are so real looking!
Good taste my friend!
Great pickup!
pvon
Where DO you find these treasures!?
Dear Friends,
Thanks to all of you kind people for the positive comments, always appreciated!
Mikee - always thought that was a great tune by Peter, Paul and Mary. they surely don't write 'em like that anymore.
Glad I grew up at a time when there was so much musical diversity out there to be enjoyed. Magic dragons, Purple Haze -soul, folk, oldies, blues, rock n' roll, fusion and classical music, without a doubt something for everyone.
Much like music, our hobby is built around many divergent interests, too. When I started collecting helmets and daggers I'd never dreamed about collecting German porcelain animals, not in a million years! I always admired the refined clean looks of Allach porcelain but never considered owning any of them. Even after I ended up with a couple of pieces, I'd pass them on to collect my hunting and forestry daggers, heh..
Somewhere along the line my interests grew in 20th century German sculptors, especially pre-1945, Tierbildhauer, or animal sculptors. The more I read on the subject, the more appealing and interesting the whole thing became. Many of the best German animal artists were active in the late 19th and early twentieth centuries, during the reign of the Kaisers. After WWI some of those men and women went on to be employed by, and/or, by the Nazis, which was only logical under the circumstances. Even though the brownshirts thoroughly screened and evaluated these artists, I doubt that very many became ardent Nazi supporters or cared much for politics, rather, they seemed to persue their own interests, strictly art for art's sake.
No matter what you collect, enjoy that to the fullest - share info with your friends if you can, always try to help, be courteous and be as tough and relentless as a pitbull if you make a mistake ... we've all fell and stumbled. The computer age has made collecting so much easier for those with just a modicum of internet-skill, it's very easy to find good things and get excellent help these days. It will assuredly help keep the faux pas' to a bare minimum and more rubles in your pocket, to collect more, that is ...
Wishing everyone the very best in collecting !
Bill
Bill,
Once again...stunning!!!
You never cease to amaze me with your porcelain!!! It seems to me, the more odd it is, the more beautiful!!!
Congrats on your new addition and thanks for your encouraging words of wisdom!!!
Rich
... speaking of pitbulls!
Rich, hope all's well and getting better all the time. Have you had some time off from your busy schedule to get in some collecting? You always turn up the nicest edged weapons when you're out and about ...
Glad you enjoyed my latest batch of goodies and thanks for your kind thoughts.
Best wishes!
B~
Dear Friends,
Thanks to all of you kind people for the positive comments, always appreciated!
Mikee - always thought that was a great tune by Peter, Paul and Mary. they surely don't write 'em like that anymore.
Glad I grew up at a time when there was so much musical diversity out there to be enjoyed. Magic dragons, Purple Haze -soul, folk, oldies, blues, rock n' roll, fusion and classical music, without a doubt something for everyone.
Much like music, our hobby is built around many divergent interests, too. When I started collecting helmets and daggers I'd never dreamed about collecting German porcelain animals, not in a million years! I always admired the refined clean looks of Allach porcelain but never considered owning any of them. Even after I ended up with a couple of pieces, I'd pass them on to collect my hunting and forestry daggers, heh..
Somewhere along the line my interests grew in 20th century German sculptors, especially pre-1945, Tierbildhauer, or animal sculptors. The more I read on the subject, the more appealing and interesting the whole thing became. Many of the best German animal artists were active in the late 19th and early twentieth centuries, during the reign of the Kaisers. After WWI some of those men and women went on to be employed by, and/or, by the Nazis, which was only logical under the circumstances. Even though the brownshirts thoroughly screened and evaluated these artists, I doubt that very many became ardent Nazi supporters or cared much for politics, rather, they seemed to persue their own interests, strictly art for art's sake.
No matter what you collect, enjoy that to the fullest - share info with your friends if you can, always try to help, be courteous and be as tough and relentless as a pitbull if you make a mistake ... we've all fell and stumbled. The computer age has made collecting so much easier for those with just a modicum of internet-skill, it's very easy to find good things and get excellent help these days. It will assuredly help keep the faux pas' to a bare minimum and more rubles in your pocket, to collect more, that is ...
Wishing everyone the very best in collecting !
Bill
Words spoken from the heart. Thank you, for all that you are and all that you do!
John,
Very nice little squirrels and great to see a side by side comparison. Thanks for the treat as always. Best!
John Z,
They say patience is a virtue, well, it's paid off again.
It's always a delight to see Professor Kärner's outstanding animal depictions, especially those rarer models he produced for the Allach company. Even better is getting to see the work in both plain white and painted. You and Tristan have the right idea when it comes to collecting these, one of each, please.
... truly a case of a pair beating a straight royal-flush !!!
Best!
W~
Nice one, John...or should I say 'nice two'!
At last I've found a Nymphenburg Pasing Vase, which along with another Rosenthal vase, is even nicer than the Allach range (well, at least than most of them).
This is dated 1st April 1938 and celebrates the incorporation of the area of Pasing into Munich proper. The vase has the Munich coat of arms, but on the Rosenthal vase this is picked out in gold.
The photo shows my three non-Allach vases in good use!
Tristan,
Where in the heck did you find that historical vase? Now that's a nice find and a beautiful display as well! Wow!
Hello gents,
It's been a while since I've checked in because once again I did my annual Lenten abstention from purchasing items from ebay.
I'm glad to see so many wonderful pieces being shared. The quality, beauty, and rarity of what this crowd turns up never ceases to amaze me.
Bill, the dragon and the stylized owl are top notch. So glad to hear you're working again, I've really enjoyed reading your message about how you evolved into collecting porcelain. I've always considered you a great role model in the hobby, and am thankful for all your knowledge and support that you've shared.
I haven't gotten anything new for the collection lately, but I am eyeballing a piece and thinking about pulling the trigger, so to speak. If I spring for it, though, rest assured I'll share it here.
Regards,
T.
Gentlemen,
A small, plump bird eyeing up a frog, sculpted by Alexander Struck. The bird is a European Robin, or Rotkelchen in German.
This example is made of Böttger Steinzeug (stoneware) for Meissen, first offered in 1939, and could also be purchased in pure white. The Allach company also produced a Rotkelchen around the same time, which was modeled by Wilhelm Krieger.
Early in this thread we saw a pair of Meissen Art Deco squirrels that I mistakenly identified as being the work of Max Esser. Recently I got a copy of an old Meissen catalog that lists many of the Böttger Steinzeug models and found that Herr Struck was actually the artist responsible for the squirrels, not Esser. Please accept my humble apologies, as I stand corrected.
Tristan - great to see that you're not afraid to use these vessels as intended, well done my friend! I've also seen some exceptional vases by KPM that could easily be mistaken for Allach products. You have a keen eye for quality, always a pleasure to see what you'll turn up next.
Tiberius - looking forward to your next find.
Hope you'll enjoy our fine feathered friend ...
Best!
Bill Warda
Bill...Cute little chap!...I'm seeing a few of these in my back garden now summer (!)has arrived.
Also very prescient of you as just yesterday I got a 1937 Rosenthal Roaring Stag but it needs a little TLC to its antlers so once it is back from the restorer I'll post some images.
In the meantime here are a couple of my birds.
Dynamic Duo ...
Tristan,
A first rate pair of Allach birds by Adolf Röhring, the Grünfink and Amsel. (Green Finch & Blackbird) Great snapshot poses to both models, the finch settling on a branch and the blackbird taking a quick look-round before enjoying a snack of lucious strawberries. Fabulous detail to the finch's open wings, every feather painstakingly portrayed. The overall balance is quite natural and lifelike as the animal applies it "air-brakes" for a perfect three-point landing. The Amsel sculpture reminds me of our local catbirds which dance and display for a mate in this same stance, tails high up in the air. These native catbirds have the uncanny ability to mimic other birds songs and answer their calls in their own tongue. Many a disappointed suitor shows up only to find this little rascal performing his deceptive impersonation.
Thanks for sharing your lovely birds with us, can't wait to see your Hirsch.
Best!
Bill
Thx Bill...forgot this guy - Seidenschwanz by Krieger.
"Ehr, Lehr, Wehr,
Kein Mann braucht mehr."
"Honor, Education, Defense,
No Man Needs More."
A German saying for every good military man to heed. A large, colorful porcelain tile that measures app. 8 x 13 inches. The decoration is a fine transfer under glaze in excellent condition. The markings on the reverse indicate early 20th century manufacture.
I thought this would make a good birthday gift for a dear old friend, what do you think?
Tristan - that's one of my favorite Allach birds, a beautiful Bohemian Waxwing. Thanks for posting.
Best regards and good collecting!
Bill
2/2
Just received an example of the Third Prize in the 1940 Munich Flower Competition.
This is the smaller of the three available prizes - 1st prize being the coloured version; 2nd being the same size, but in white, and the third being a smaller white example.
Tristan,
Always a pleasure seeing your latest finds!
The small third prize example was the first piece of Allach that I ever purchased, back in the mid-1980's. It was hardly noticeable in amongst all the cheesy do-dads, Flintstone jelly glasses and trite nik-naks. I remember feeling like the luckiest guy on the planet.
I still get that good feeling every time I find a nice piece of porcelain like these two early deer models by Rosenthal. The one on the left by Theo Kärner, marked with the 1928 logo and the one on the right I believe by Fritz Heidenreich with a rare 1945 stamp.
As always, a kind thank you to all who participate and comment.
Best regards and good collecting !!
BW~
Bill
A nice addition to your collection, both of these are as good as any Allach piece out there,this thread is a must for me everyday just to see what has been added.
Gary
Guys!
never have owned any allach but everything you fella's show is
impressive and I am amazed it survived!
I can see how you guys get hooked on beauty and artistic
value!
Thanks for sharing and allowing a glimpse into areas some of us might never know!
Bill
I am glad you share and give background for us to understand!
PVON
Gary & Paul,
Thanks for your positive comments, it's always a pleasure sharing with you gentlemen ...
Best!
Bill
Hear hear!!
This is my new desk-top!
My photographic skills aren't up to much. Here's a better attempt.
I look at this thread everyday and enjoy the beautiful works of art shared here, superb picture making. I had a small porcelain collection at one time, most of which has gone to time. I kept prints of more important items; here are scans of both models of the SS-Standard Bearer I once owned. The officer model was damaged, had lost the finial from the staff and the dagger handle was re-afixed. Still, it was impressive to be able to display them together. Apologies for the poor images attached, made long before digital was around.
Amazing to have these two pieces together! You must have replaced them with some really serious stuff...edged weapons maybe?
Bill,
I agree with Gary, you just can't go wrong with the likes of Rosenthal. They both look real nice in white as well. I must be looking in all the wrong places because I haven't picked up anything in a while, so it's a real joy when you and the others post your latest finds.
Tristan,
As always thanks for sharing your treasures. A great piece one could only wish for.
Barry,
You must of had some collection. If you have more pictures, would enjoy seeing them. Thanks.
Thx Mikee. But here's a piece one could DIE for...an Allach Raven. it went today in an auction for E14,000! I only hope the lucky buyer is a member here and we can see some images of this fantastic piece.
Tristan,
Congratulations on adding this lovely lady to your collection, without doubt an absolute classic!
I took the liberty of messing about with your photo a bit, I hope you won't mind? Great idea using the Kunst magazine as a backdrop - Athena at her best.
Thanks for adding the spectacular photo of the auction piece. Professional shots like this certainly highlight the fine detail and exceptional quality that Allach figures present. Little wonder they command the prices that they do.
Barry - Glad to hear that you enjoy this thread too, and I'm very glad you chose to add your two remarkable sculptures by Professor Kärner. No doubt about Herr Kärner's artistic talent and versatility, whether animal or human, his numerous works are simply the creme de la creme. Each of these figures would grace either an advanced porcelain or SS collection.
As our good friend Mikee said, please feel free to add anything you like from your old collection.
Many thanks to all who take time to comment and/or add photos of your collections.
Best regards!
Bill
Bill..thanks,that's sharpened it up a bit!
Here's another photographic attempt of mine: a small terracota bust of the Bamberger Reiter and a post-card showing his imsge for the 1938 Day of German Art.
Tristan,
Great juxtaposition between the two riders, it clearly shows the minor differences in the crown structure that we discussed earlier. Is the bust maker marked, possibly a Meissen Steinzeug? Glad to see you're experimenting with your photographs, keep up the good work.
Johnny,
I see the squirrel arrived unharmed, it must have been well packaged, dank Gott. You've got a fine, rare Art Deco unit there, with a 1924 marking - never saw another like it. By any chance did the seller know the artist or does the piece have an impressed model number? I'd love to know who sculpted this gem. Really pleased you were able to add this exceptional example to your squirrel menagerie!
Thanks for the great posts guys!
WW~
Willi:
Here is what the seller states:
Entwurf: Zacherl - Klee / Modell Nr: 759
John
John,
Couldn't find a biography on the artist, M. Zacherl-Klee. I thought perhaps he/she might have been related to the famous sculptor who worked for Hutschenreuther, Fritz Klee? I'll keep after that info and add anything I might find.
In the meantime, enjoy your lovely squirrel.
W~
He is cute!
Bill...no clear markings on the Bamberger. On the reverse is a very small square stamp in the shape of a house, and on the base, in ink, is written the number '119/721'. There is also a stock number in the mold of '2023'. The quality is only average and it was not an expensive piece.
What is more exciting is the return of the Rosenthal stag from the restorer. He has done an excellent job on the antlers, reinstating the wooden pegs so they sit properly in their sockets. This is stamped with the 1937-style logo (apologies for the image!) and the stock no. '1555'. My book tells me this is by Fritz Heidenreith, although no such name appears on the piece. I now have to find room for him!
...
...sorry, that should be Heidenreich
Tristan - could you mention the name of the restorer - I have a similar problem with mine and cannot find a decent craftsman to do the restoration.
Tristan,
It looks like the restoration artist did an excellent job on your bellowing Hirsch, it's amazing what some of these porcelain experts can do. This Heidenreich model is most often found decorated (painted) and rarely does one find it in "all white," which I personally prefer with this example. Lots of great overall detail throughout the deer's body, horns and base. It'll be a fine complement to your outstanding collection of Allach hard paste. Great find.
Russian,
Unfortunately Tristan lives across the pond which might make for difficult logistics..? Can you tell me about the project you have in mind, I may be able to help if you'd like? Would you have any photos of the piece that needs repair?
Best regards!
Bill
Thanks, Bill...yes it is a nice non-Allach acquisition.
Russian... as Bill says it may be expensive for you to send your piece over the 'pond', but here anyway are a couple of people I have used:
http://www.antiques-ceramics-repairs-fife.co.uk/http://www.porcelain-restoration.co.uk/The first one is Kevin, who did the stag, and the second did an Allach repair for me. The first is cheaper, but if your repair is complicated I would suggest the second. Let me know how you get on.
Hope this is O.K to post in this thread, I thought I would introduce an item not of porcelain but a wood carved boar.
Gary
Tristan,
That Allach Raven looks quite nice and delicate and no doubt a well made item. If I had a choice I'd much rather have your bellowing Hirsh by Rosenthal any day.
Gary,
No problem. That's quite a "fine-swine," truly a handsome brute by any measure. He'll make for a lovely accent piece to your hunting and forestry collection, along with your Allach and bronze animals. This is one of the better wooden boars I've seen in some time, many of them only hint at a bit of detail, whereas this example is highly defined and expertly carved. Great age patina and color to the wood too.
Getting back to the porcelain aspect of our thread, here's another nice Keiler. This example by my favorite Meissen sculptor, Max Esser. Looks like the old boy is relieving himself of an itch, scratching on a tree stump. For anyone having some extra cash at the moment, this piece was just posted on American eBay. If I had the money he'd be long gone ...
At least we can enjoy him here.
Best!
B~
Mikee...I think we'll have to differ over that one!
Here is a Coloured Stag I have been chasing for a while - it is a 1956 Rosenthal piece no. 85 by Karner, 20 years later than the White version.
...
Tristan,
Well worth the wait, quite an exceptional pair. Outstanding painting on your latest figure, a beautiful complement to the stark white. Congratulations and thanks for letting us have a look.
Best!
Bill
Tristan,
Bill and I both have this model and it's one of my favorites. The painted version really brings the piece to life. Thanks
Gentlemen,
Another of Max Esser's fabulous animal portraits, this one a stylized bison, or Wisent. Esser created this work for Hermann Göring's hunting lodge at Schorfheide. As the Russian juggernaut drove west it was dismantled and buried for safekeeping. Having direct ties to the Third Reich, after the war it was deemed as having no importance as a memorial, but has since been reassembled and is now once again on display.
Max Esser was born in Barth in 1885. At the age of fifteen he began his lessons as a sculptor in Berlin, at the Acadamy of Applied Arts and also took evening classes King's Academic School. In 1903 he studied under the private tutelage of the noted animal sculptor August Gaul, and became an advanced "master sculptor." In 1906 he took part in his first public showing at the Berlin Art Exhibition. Subsequently in 1912 his first major sale was to the Berlin National Galery, as they purchased his sculpture titled, "Pearlhens." At this time he produced numerous animal sculptures for the top names in porcelain to include the Salzburg Workshops, Hutschenreuther, Rosenthal and KPM. Through his personal contacts he was introduced to Max Pfeiffer, director of the Meissen porcelain factory, and began his employment with the prestigious company. During this time up until 1939 he also produced various sculptures for the open space of many Berlin city fountains and parks.
His greatest fame was for his small-scale works of animal art; in 1937 Esser won the Grand Prix gold medal at the Paris World's Fair for his "Fischotter." In the same year he became a member of the Prussian Acadamy of Art and took part in many of its exhibits. With the end of World War II, he died in 1945 in Berlin.
I was lucky enough to recently add the white porcelain, Grand Prix Fischotter to my collection. The following images should certainly confirm Herr Esser's ability as one of Germany's premiere, 20th century animal sculptors.
Hope you enjoy ... and good collecting to all.
Best!
Bill
Beaver & badger
Wild pig with piglets, Fischotters
Bill...Those are stunningly detailed pieces. The Baboon is my favourite as you can imagine him stretching out at any time - so life-like!
Bill,
As always you have a good eye for great art. Excellent examples! It's hard for me to pick out a favorite. But the one that really stands out for me is the wild boar sow with wild boar piglets.
Not Imperial nor is it Third Reich, but this is a squirrel to go with his nutty family.
Norwegian crystal (sounds like an old Beatles song, right).
John
John,
Your stockpile of squirrels is most striking - bronze, stone, porcelain, glass and wood to name a few, it seems like you've got all the bases covered my friend.
It's always a pleasure to see your latest tributes to the Eickhorn Waffenfabrik and their ubiquitous logo. I found this one on eBay and thought you might find it interesting, don't know if you have any lamps yet?
300864372882
Thanks for sharing and much continued good luck!
W~
Willi:
Viele danke for the heads up... it is on its way to the Great White North as we speak. Pictures will follow.
Hannes
Hans,
Very good sir, looking forward to some snaps ...
Best!
W~
It's been a relatively quiet summer as far as collecting goes but I have been lucky enough to add to the Allach stable an example of the Zattlerock Morisken. This was produced in 1941, and according to Porell's excellent book only 790 of these were produced. This brings to four my Moriskens, with only the Bauer (1943) to find!
Tristan,
Even though you had a quiet summer this piece was well worth the wait. These dancers are so full of life and movement, each one having its own sublime detail and character. Here's a little background on how these wonderful figures came into being ...
Erasmus Grasser developed an animated and realistic style, furthering on the works of Nikolaus Gerhaert. He worked mainly in wood, and is best known for the 16 (now 10) figures of Moriskentänzer. (Morris dancers -1480) Also the Madonna of the high altar in St Mary (Ramersdorf), the oak choir stalls at the cathedral of Munich (1502) and the high altar at Reichersdorf (1502–1506).
Nikolaus Gerhaert (c. 1420 – 1473), also known as Nikolaus Gerhaert van Leyden, was a sculptor of Dutch origin, although aside from his sculptures, few details are known of his life. Gerhaert is considered to be the most influential northern European sculptor of the 15th century. He was born in Leiden, Holland (present day Netherlands) sometime around 1420. Based on the location of his work, we know he spent most of his working life in the Germanic areas of Trier, Straßburg, Baden, Konstanz, and Vienna. Much of his documented work is lost to history, but what has survived is characterized by elaborate drapery and extreme physical realism, both extraordinarily vivid and unconventional.
This photo of Gerhaert's "Man Meditating," (believed to be a self-portrait) clearly illustrates the similarity and bridge to Grasser's dancers, then reflected into the Allach figures.
Richard Forster captured and preserved all the character of Grasser's original masterpieces and in many ways even surpassed them.
Hat's off to you Tristan, you're always full of unexpected surprises. Thanks for sharing your latest find with us, I know our regular forum members wish you the best of luck completing this series of Allach Masterworks.
Hannes,
Nice! That's a fine lamp and a great looking squirrel, very Art Deco. When I saw it I immediately thought of you and your Eickhorn collection. I'm really glad to hear you're pleased with it, glad to be of service.
Best regards!
Willi
Willi..many thanks for your kind comments, and for your knowledge!
James,
That is pretty neat! Thanks for showing it.
That is unusual! Maybe handed out as a gift to purchasers of their edged weapons?
James,
Definitely out of the ordinary. This is the first time I've heard of or seen a Hörster Christmas-gift plate and it's a nice find indeed. The company logo has excellent detail to it, just like on their edged weapons, too. Never encountered this porcelain maker before, the geometric pattern looks like it could possibly be a single stylized "M," or possibly even over another "M..?" I'll have to keep searching for this mark and will let you know if I find something. No matter, it's a fine original and I'm glad you posted it for us to enjoy, a very good score indeed.
Best!
Bill
Slightly off topic, but here is an advertising sign for the Horster Firm, showing their logo.
Tristan,
Another great item. I'm amazed every time you post. Thank you
Cool!
Tristan,
Thanks for your latest post, it's been too long since we've seen something new.
At nearly 50cm that is one impressive raptor, it literally dwarfs that fine Allach pooch. This is the first time I've seen this large eagle by Karl Ens and it's a beauty to be sure. It reminds me of August Gaul's great eagle Fliegerdenkmal at the Wasserkuppe, Rhön, where the DLV flyers practiced in their gliders during the 1930's.
I've never been a big Ens fan but this model is truly something special and well out of the ordinary for that company. I've looked at their birds for years and always felt they lacked something, especially their painted models. One very rarely sees anything in pure white by this prolific producer and it certainly is a treat to see this piece. If you could post or send me a photo of the marking I'd really enjoy having a look at it.
Congratulations on adding this excellent and imposing sculpture to your collection.
Best regards!
Bill
Thanks guys...I'm very pleased with it. The designer is A. Berg and this explains the 'AB20'marking.
The 'ENS' marking is very small and my photo cannot show it well, but here is a coloured version of the piece I found on the web with a little more information.
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/21095216_karl-ens-volkstedt-bird-of-prey-1920-h-47-cm
T,
Thanks for the link, I'll post that photo below. Will post the ENS mark for those who might be interested, too. This mark in green is their pre-'45 logo.
The bird looks great in color, very nice! Once again, a great find to add to your superb collection.
Best!
B~
Thanks Bill...here's a mirror shot of the white bird to complement the coloured version.
A very handsome raptor, Tristan, and a great addition to your already fine collection.
Though I have to say that the photo of the color glazed version that Bill shared is absolutely magnificent!
T.
Tiberius,
So good to see you back on the forum, it's been quite a while. I hope your studies have been going well, are you coming down the home-stretch yet? Did you have a chance to work on your collection, find any nice horses or other goodies lately? I'd like to add this Meissen pony for you, Steinzeug, by Willi Münch-Khe. I recently added this one to my collection.
Something else I'd like to share with the forum is another piece of Meissen that was recently up for grabs on eBay. The starting bid was a handsome 2K and nobody went for it. I'm not sure if it was re-listed for a third time? The figure is that of the "Merry Prankster," Till Eulenspiegel, who was mentioned in this thread previously. The prankster, jester or fool has been rendered by most of the important porcelain houses at one time or another and Meissen produced at least three variants. The model 73347 we'll look at was crafted by Alexander Struck and is normally found in a nicely painted version. There's something about this all-white figure that I really enjoy, even though I can't explain it properly..? Hope you all might enjoy it too.
Best!
Bill
Thanks for the return welcome, Bill. I have indeed completed my studies, graduated, and am in the job market. Hopefully something will turn up soon!
Funny you should post that Meissen Bottger foal (which is, of course, very nice), as I have recently acquired a large 1950's era terracotta foal of similar design. It was made by the Karlsruhler Majolika company, and was sculpted by Elsa Bach. Much cheaper than a Meissen (until I can afford one!), and I find the rough-hewn look to be quite charming.
I also found this nice Vienna bronze pony last year. The wood base is a newer replacement I suspect, but the figure itself is old. Not a Bergman this time, but it is marked 'Austria' and has great detail.
I've added several other horses to my herd as well, but they're of newer vintage and origin than what usually passes here. I am, however, currently stalking a nice porcelain equine which I will share here if I am successful in bidding and it makes it to me safely. *crosses fingers!*
I also picked up this bronze-finished spelter metal stag at a local estate auction. It is unsigned, but reminds me of some of the fine Allach and bronze pieces that have appeared in this thread.
That Meissen figure is really something else, Bill. The Jester has a certain coiled pose that's full of energy and quite visually appealing. I can see why it catches your eye. I think it is also unusual that he is holding an owl, in lieu of the usual raptor-type avian.
Great to see you gents still posting treasures!
T.
T,
Then congratulations are in order for completing your studies and the best of luck to landing a good job!
I've always admired Elsa Bach's deer figures for Karlsruhe, didn't she sculpt the first models for Walt Disney's, Bambi fawn? Many from that deer series she modeled have the distinct look of those early animations. As for being cheaper than the Meissen Steinzeug I'm not so sure, her foals and fawns seem to be fairly expensive, too. I recently added my first piece of Karlsruhe Majolika to my collection, it's a lion cub that's larger in scale than the Rosenthal and Schwarzburg cubs. The cub figures by those two outfits usually command a very good price, especially Kärners baby lion.
Your Austrian bronze is very nice, I like the look of his/her long shaggy mane. It looks like on of those sturdy Russian, little Panje ponies. Talk about pricey, some of the Bergman's are fetching crazy money and I hear that market is also saturated with good fakes as well. I'm lucky to have one big old Austrian bronze lizard that I got for a song years ago. Lot's of neat and unusual animal sculptures to be found in the Bergman line.
That Hirsch is a very nice find, I'd never have guessed it was Spelterware from the photos, it looks pretty heavy to me. Great pose and anatomy to the beast and a lovely, ornate base. Definitely a keeper.
As always, thanks for sharing with all of us, much appreciated. Hope your luck holds out and you end up with that piece you've got an eye on.
Best!
Bill
Thanks, Tiberius...likewise nice to see you back in the saddle again! (no pun inteneded).
That Meissen, Bill, looks quite devilish as if he knows a lot that we mere mortals do not.
Here is another recent addition to the 'Alte Fritz' collection. Again, an EMS (in green) figure but much smaller than my existing piece.
Apologies for my photographic efforts!
Tristan,
Two nice renderings of "old Fritz," King of Prussia, an enlightened, benevolent absolutist monarch. For those who enjoy reading German history but haven't touched base with Frederick II, I strongly advise and recommend that you at least read a brief biography of the old king. He was truly "a man for all seasons." A fabulous story of wars, politics, economy, religion and the arts that shaped the future of Europe as we know it today.
Both are the perfect size for someone's desk or collecting room and well within most of our budgets. These two are nicely detailed and capture the essence of the man. In a word, delightful !
Great additions to your collection of white-gold.
Best regards!
Bill
Hello gents,
I am extremely excited to share with you two of my most prized equine figures, both of which are recent acquisitions from private collectors.
The first is one I've sought for a long time. The Pawing Foal by Hans Achtziger, produced by Hutschenreuther. This piece was also done in a dappled gray/white pattern, but I find that the chestnut brown coloring better enhances the sculpt details. The tree branch and leaves on the base are very finely done as well. Just a great dynamic sculpt, perfectly capturing the energy of a frolicking foal.
As for the second? I was trembling when I received this one; praying that it had survived its journey. Shown below is a rare Meissen bottger sculpture of the race horse 'Alchimist', by Erich Oehme. It is signed and dated 1938. It is the smaller version of this beautiful sculpture (Meissen also produced a huge sized version), but still packs a lot of punch. I cannot express how grateful I am to have the privilege of owning this figure and I hope that someday, I will be able to acquire its big brother.
T.
Tiberius,
It's easy to see why these two are among your favorites. The names Hans Achtziger and Erich Oehme both figure prominently in the world of 20th century porcelain sculptors. Both artists have distinctly different styles and are each responsible for a large number of highly sought-after animal figures.
To my mind Achtziger has a very playful style with a good many of his portrayals, though, some are more straightforward and realistic. He somehow reminds me of the great Danish pianist and conductor, Victor Borge, as strange as that may seem. Here was a man who was supremely talented and yet chose to make light of things, as only a true master can do. The sculptor seems to convey exactly that same "lightheartedness" in his repetoire, by not taking himself too seriously and reflecting that in his work. On the other hand, when he opted for very realistic models he could easily do that as well.
Your lovely colt figurine has that light, lively feeling and the painting is excellent. There are just so many subtle variations throughout the coloring, bringing the animal to life in this fine portrait. There's a fantastic action to the piece that gives the viewer that true sense of the young animal, frolicking and playing simply for the sheer fun of it.
Oehme's rendering is more like a formal portrait, regal, refined and very realistic. One gets the feeling of power from this elegant thoroughbred, his muscles just waiting to take him to a full gallop at a moment's notice. The medium also adds much to the sculpture, it's easy to see why Meissen decided to make use of its formula for Böttger Steinzeug again. It defintely adds to the already first-class study.
Congratulations on adding these two fine animals to your collection, they certainly are beauties.
Best regards!
Bill
Great additions, Tiberius!
Thanks Bill and Tristan!
And now to share an Ebay listing guaranteed to make your inner porcelain aficionado faint out of sheer awesomeness:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/PORCELAIN-25-PAR...CO/321374105352Also known as, an absolutely magnificent, monumental sized Macaw sculpted by Theodore Karner, glazed by R. Bock, produced by Nymphenburg.
Does it get any better than that? Phew!
T.
Wow!! The Postage alone is, well...wow!
Tiberius,
This beautiful sculpture is Kärner's Ara, or macaw, and was first manufactured by Nymphenburg in 1913. This lovely bird also graces the cover of the 1984 German publication, "Theodor Kärner - Gedächtnisausstellung," or memorial exhibition.
These early pieces that he sculpted for Nymphenburg are really incredible and the painters they had on the payroll were some of the most talented porcelain painters in the country at that time. The introduction of the airbrush into this field really brought about a whole new dimension in bringing these animals to life.
Thanks for calling our attention to this fabulous work of art.
Best regards!
Bill
2/2
It's said we learn something new every day and so it goes ...
I was pleasantly surprised to find this old porcelain manufacturer that shared its WKC moniker with edged-weapons producer, Weyersberg, Kirchbaum & Cie. Figures produced by this company are actually fairly common in today's German porcelain market, but I never took notice of them before adding this tiger to my collection.
A bit of background on the company ...
WKC - Weiß, Kühnert & Co. - Gräfenthal, Thuringia
(1891 until 1972)
The company began production in 1891 and most items they produced were predominantly made for export. The business slowly grew and in 1913 employed just over 200 people, producing items like religious figures, bathing beauties, Frozen Charlottes, bonnet dolls, doll heads and Kewpies. Based on their flawless reputation, the company became one of the few selected European facilities which were allowed to produce Mickey Mouse figures under Disney license from 1929 onwards which resulted in a few more people being employed for the job and so the company reached their peak employment of 250 people in 1930, a number that remained constant until 1937. The company of was also known for producing pieces simply marked 'Relpaw' - the name of a German company that sold aquarium-related products which purchased these ready-marked items from Weiß, Kühnert & Co..
During World War II, the company was ordered to produce items for the German war machine and all master molds were simply stored away for future use. After World War II the factory was put under military management until 1949 and following the founding of the German Democratic Republic the factory was constrained to produce utilitarian items such as beer steins and ordinary tableware.
The tiger's base is marked with the impressed letters WKC above two angular crossed lines and the model number 11593.
The overall length is about 11 inches by 5 inches tall. The growling feline is well proportioned with good attention paid to the animal's anatomy. The light plays nicely on the shadows and highlights that define the big cat's muscles. There is no artist's mark or signature to help us identify the sculptor. All in all, a fairly good rendering of Panthera tigris, hope you enjoy.
Kind regards!
Bill
2/2
A fine feline, Bill, and proof that it is possible to find good figures from second-tier porcelain companies. This particular cat - with its heavy muscling and poise - reminds me of bronze pieces by Antoine-Louis Barye, the famed animalier sculptor.
Thanks for sharing and congrats!
T.
Bill, your knowledge of all things porcelain never ceases to amaze me!
I have now finished the 3-piece set of the Allach 1940 Flower Show awards. The painted-base piece is 1st prize, the unpainted is second, and the smaller one is 3rd prize. According to Dennis Porell's book the smaller of the three is the rarer. All are by Karl Himmelstoss, and are un-numbered.
Tristan,
My little bit of knowledge about German porcelain only scratches the surface, like a chicken pecking at the top of a tall mountain ...
WOW !!! Your hard work and persistance is abundantly evident with this latest post of Himmelstoss figures. I can only imagine the hours you spent searching and finding these three outstanding prizes from the 1940 flower exhibiton. Well done good sir, well done.
Best regards and thanks for always sharing with us!
Bill
This is always one of my go to sections on the forum.. Nothing but the best in antiques (collectibles) and manners here always.
Regards: James
Thanks for your comments, Damast. I have just bought an Imperial set of sword hangers from an American gentleman with the same nom de plume...is this you by any chance?
I've just been lucky enough to fnd an excellent example of Karner's small coloured German Shepherd Dog (No. 11), and he fits very nicely with his other canine colleagues!
James,
Glad to hear that you enjoy visiting here. Thanks to our members Tristan, Tiberius and other good friends there's always some exquisite porcelain to look at.
Case in point, Tristan's latest post of marvelous Allach shepherd dogs. To those who know how difficult it can be to find just one good example, here we have the small and large versions, not only in white but also in color. For me it's simply amazing to see all of Professor Kärner's shepherds together like this and like the Guinness saying goes, "brilliant!!!"
Tristan, I have a question for you please ... what are you going to do to top this? Simply amazing.
I recently put together a pair of Meissen hares by Max Esser, though, nothing quite as outstanding as T's dogs. These came from one of the two chess-sets that Esser designed in the late 1920's. These hares come from the land-animal set and the other represents sea-creatures. I've seen the complete sets being auctioned and fetching between 10-20K! Every now and then you'll see a single piece for sale or auction at a reasonable price, but they're far and few between. Hope you might enjoy these neat little Art Deco examples.
Best!
Bill
Thanks Bill. I think I'm geting to the outer financial edge of Allach (for example see Mohawk's current auction),so it will slow up and be replaced by other porcelain pieces...but, heh, you never know what happens if you keep your eyes peeled!
What particular chess pieces do these little critters represent?
Tristan,
The Meissen web site has them in the bishop's position, I guess that's correct since they're making them..?
I'd have guessed due to size a knight, where the ibex is standing. A couple extra snaps I found of the ocean creatures too.
Best!
Bill
2/2
Hello gents,
Tristan, those Alsatians are quite wonderful - very elegant and poised. It's great to see them in their varied sizes and colors together. Well done!
Bill, thanks for sharing those chess sets. Very impressive how much artistry and attention to creative design and details were incorporated into them.
I'd also like to share a recent addition to my porcelain equines, another acquisition from a private collector.
This is a foal produced by Metzler & Ortloff, a German porcelain manufacturer located in Thuringia. The specific marks dates its production from between 1930 to 1972. It is unsigned, but I suspect it is the work of well-known artist Fritz Diller, who sculpted for such firms as Hutschenreuther and Rosenthal, produced a number of animalier bronzes, and also sculpted and signed a standing adult horse figure for M&O. Examples of this piece are scarce; likely due to the relative obscurity of the company, and I am very pleased to be able to add it to my collection.
T.
Tiberius,
Thanks for sharing your new colt with the forum, it's always a pleasure to see what our friends turn up next.
Here's a rare and interesting, very early Meissen sculpture by Kaendler that recently caught my eye. A Wisent or European bison and a boar in mortal combat.
Best!
Bill
Thanks Bill for the chess piece's images - a quite unique set! and Tiberius for that dainty pony, although he does have a rather malevolent glint in his eye!
I hope to post a nice horse item shortly!
A couple of horse items:
Frstly, though rather off topic, attached is a link to a local attraction recently completed which comprises two 30 metre horse heads made from steel plates, situated next to the Edinburgh motorway...worth a visit if any memebers are in the area.
http://www.thehelix.co.uk/discover-helix/the-kelpies/Secondly, my recent Allach acquistion, the Karner Standing Horse. Smaller and more static than his other pieces but nonetheless beautiful in shape and style.
Tristan,
The kelpies short film was most enjoyable, those massive horse heads remind me of Thorak's large-scale sculptures. I'm just as impressed with your latest "small-scale" figure by Professor Kärner, which we don't see too often. This is the first one I've seen in someone's collection and it's surely a beauty!
I know I've said this on several occasions throughout this thread, that Theodor Kärner has to be one of the finest animal artists of the 20th century. His repetoire of deer and horse figures seem almost endless, not to mention dogs, birds and so many other representatives from the animal kingdom. One could spend an entire lifetime collecting his work alone.
As always, I'm very grateful to everyone who shares their fine works of art with us. I hope that seeing these lovely sculptures we might inspire others to appreciate and maybe even join us in our passion for collecting fine German porcelain.
A hearty congratulations on your latest acquisition.
Best!
B~
Bill
So many beautiful items shown in this thread!
I was at OVMS Roberts show this weekend and Tom Wittman had this beauty on his table!
I snapped a pic for you! Not sure of period!
PVON
Tristan, it is an absolute pleasure to see your Allach equine. Certainly a dream acquisition for me. You must be extremely pleased to add it to your fine collection. Congratulations!
I will join the chorus and reiterate how many wonderful things can be seen in this thread, and how much I appreciate board members sharing not only from their own collections, but also from things seen in their real world and internet travels.
Thanks for your kind comments! The Standing Horse piece is not often seen, and in fact there was a badly damaged coloured one on Ebay recently that went for, what seemed to me to be, an inordinately large amount of money!! However,I wish the buyer well with it and hope he can have it restored.
PVON...I think that Shepherd Dog is a Karner from his Nymphenburg days...Model No. 398?
Might be smaller than the others but of all the horses I like this one the best,it's simple design just adds to it's elegance in my opinion.
Lovely piece
Gary
Further to my previous post I managed to pick up a porcelain figure of the Bamberger Reiter, the head of whom is shown in the Rosenthal advertisement.
The figure is not Rosenthal, however, but is by Aelteste Volkstedter. The logo on the base looks like the post-1945 emblem.
He is 48 cm tall and very imposing, and looks to be unrestored. There seems to be some debate as to who he actually is, possibly Henry II, but the original statue dates from the middle of the 13th century and can be found in Bamberg Cathedral.
The final image is of Henry I who was one of Himmler's idols, and one can see the likeness with the Bamberger.
Tristan,
Thanks for all your latest additions to the thread!
The period advertisements are always something special to see and most enjoyable. Hopefully we can add some more from different sources in future. I'll keep an eye open for them ...
Your Bamberger Reiter is certainly a fine, most impressive catch. These larger pieces add so much to one's collecting room and easily capture the eye. I'll bet you were on "pins and needles" while this one was in transit, that's a lot of sculpture there. Aelteste Volkstedt is another manufacturer that has lots of excellent pieces to offer, they've been around for a long, long time.
There's no doubt that the true identity of the Reiter has been open to many interpretations, theories and explanations. Personally I'm very comfortable terming it an allgorical subject, there's no doubt it's a wonderful figure, especially the one you've been so kind as to post for our enjoyment.
Always a pleasure good sir.
Best regards!
Bill
Thank you. I have also picked up a large coloured eagle so I'll get that posted soon, and hopefully some other members will have items to show!
This is the coloured version of the ENS Eagle by 'AB20' (Anton Bushelberger, 1920?.
45cm in hight,it is beautifully coloured, especially around the eyes!
Old Friends and Fellow Collectors,
To add to Tristan's previous post of Allach German shepherds, here are some photos that show the fine details of these wonderful Kärner canines. I recently had the pleasure to inspect and photograph one of the large models that belongs to an old friend.
There's also another rare, large model of a shepherd by the professor that I was unaware of, by Eschenbach. Due to arrive this coming week, I'll share that one as time permits.
To those heading off to the MAX Show in a couple of weeks I wish you all the best of luck finding some great additions for your collections.
Best!
Bill
Stunning clarity, Bill, in those photos!
Tristan, Love the colored eagle and the detail to the talons are amazing.
Bill, That's one nice puppy dog. I'm amazed at the detail, tongue especially.
Tristan,
Looks like we were of like minds with our Saturday morning posts ...
That is one fine looking eagle, very nice! Beautiful details to the head, downright exceptional.
Glad you and Mikee enjoyed the additional snaps of the large Allach shepherd. It has to be one of the most outstanding canine porcelain sculptures that money can buy. Here are a few shots of the Eschenbach example that I just added to my collection. Hope you'll enjoy this one too.
Best!
Bill
2/2
Checking in and catching up. Tristan, that Bamberger Reiter is exquisite. I know that Alka Kunst/Kaiser also made a similar piece, though in a significantly smaller scale than your epic-sized version. Also, your colored ENS eagle is an extremely handsome piece. Very well done, and congratulations!
Bill, that Eschenbach Alsatian is a splendid work of art. Just magnificent colors and sculptural details. A great addition to your already impressive collection.
Thanks for continuing to share your treasures, gents!
T.
And while I'm here I'll just share this ceramic equine I recently acquired. Produced by Wien Keramos of Austria, likely around the 1930s-1940s. Not the greatest detail, and not a company I usually collect, but I found the leaping pose to be particularly appealing. It is also a rarer piece and not often seen, particularly in this coloration. Probably sculpted by Rudolf Chocholka, who began work at Wien Keramos in 1940 and sculpted many of company's horse figures.
Not an Allach or other top-flight piece, but I'm happy to add him to my fragile herd, nonetheless.
T.
Tiberius,
Glad to see you're staying busy with the hobby, appreciate you sharing your latest find with us. It's not often we get to see a horse sculpture that has all the animal's hooves off the ground like your latest example. A very nice pose indeed, by this well known artist.
Hope all is well at work, how's that going?
Thanks to everyone for sharing their latest additions.
Best!
Bill
Great images, guys!
I clearly need to buy a better camera, or at least get one of these new-fangled mobile phone/camera thingamyjigs!
Awfully quiet in here, gents. Just stopping by on this day of feasting and family to belatedly post photos of a piece I acquired a month or two ago. Here we have a handsome trotting horse sculpted by Carl Werner and produced by Hutschenreuther of Germany. The factory mark dates its production to between 1925 - 1939. This horse is a long-sought addition to my collection, and I am very happy to finally have it.
Wishing you all the best during this holiday season!
T.
Happy Thanksgiving, Tiberius and all my fellow collectors.
A lovely high-steping dappled horse for your collection...how many does that now add up to?
Things are quiet here...I have bid for a few items but been unsuccessful, but keeping my eyes open!
Tiberius,
Hope you spent an enjoyable holiday with your family and thanks for taking time to share your latest find with us.
The name Carl Werner is easily recognizable as one of Hutschenreuther's top sculptors. Werner also served as technical director of the Porzellanfabrik Lorenz Kunstabteilung from 1922 -1960. His sculpting abilities covered a wide range of subject matter, though, he is most noted for his studies of the human figure in motion.
This is a beautiful horse study for your collection. At once the animal conveys great strength and elegance in its movement. I'm truly impressed with the painting too, those subtle markings at the top of the legs and on the cheeks really complement the sculpture. Often these markings are harsh and overdone. There's something about the placement of the lower jaw that makes Werner's horses so distinct. There's another large Werner sculpture of two horses side by side in full gallop that share this similar facial trait.
You made a very good choice adding this outstanding model to your porcelain collection.
Tristan - we'll keep our fingers crossed for you ... can't wait to see what you'll turn up next.
Best regards!
Bill
T,
My bad ... I was thinking of Max Fritz' horse pair. They seem to share the same facial characteristic, though, a bit more elongated. Just wanted to correct my statement above.
B~
Well, gents, your prodding of the thread has brought me a result! Just received confirmation of an accepted bid for a mounted figure of Prinz Eugen...get back to you in a couple of weeks!
Tristan,
I think Tiberius' post brought us both some good luck, I finally found a nice Bamberger Reiter on horseback for a very fair price. Three horses in a row ...
Thanks Tiberius!
B~
Bamberger Reiter by Kaiser Porzellan.
Best!
Bill
Posted for Mark -
"Here is some of my Allach in new lighted display cases."
I received a beautiful Bugeling Elk this evening from another member. It is the painted Rosenthal version. I was fortunate to have the white Allach version. I will post them together soon. The painted one was on eBay and it was a great find. The larger animal figures are not often found undamaged.
Mark
That's one awesome display! Don't think I've seen anything that comes close or better! Can't wait to see it,love the painted version!
The new Bugling Elk came from Tim Gustafson. He and I have done a fair amount of trading over the years. A good and trusted friend. I am having a difficult time shrinking pictures to post them. I used to have it down pat, but I think I forgot how to do it easily. Soon though!
Mark
Bill,
I like it and what a superb specimen,congrats on finding it!
Mikee,
Thanks ...
Mark - good to see you back on the forum, welcome. If you need help with your photos send them to me and I'll post them, no problem. I've got some questions and comments on your latest post but I've got to run, be back later.
Best!
B~
OK Bill, I sent s couple of pics of the Rosenthal Elk to Vern so he could post them for me.
Best,
Mark
The thread has certainly come alive again! Wonderful additions, all.
Mark,
A very regal bellowing Hirsch by Fritz Heidenreich, it will make for a fine addition to your porcelain collection. An outstanding job of painting the figure, very life-like, all crowned by that massive rack of horns in perfect condition. Very nice, congratulations!
In your previous photo there's an eagle in the third cabinet from the left, can you tell us a little more about that piece? Great job of storing and displaying your wonderful collection.
Best regards!
Bill
Ah, the eagle! I found it in an antique store marked down from $15.00 to $7.50. It has no maker marks at all but it certainly looks like a Whermacht eagle to me. For that price, I took it home and cleaned it in Dawn and hot water and it absolutely gleams. I wish I knew who made it, when and why. I just looked at it very closely and noticed that it does have some words on the rear base of the eagle, but it looks like the words have been obscured and are difficult to make out. The words are in the style of the artist name on the Allach and Rosenthal I have. Do you have any idea's on it? The base is separate from the eagle and there may have been, at one time, a middle piece.
Mark
Mark, I love that stag, that painting is what brings it alive.
If you can get us some closeup pictures of the eagle we might be able to help. Thanks
I sent the pics to Bill...hopefully he will post them soon. They came out really nice and you can see the inscription on the reverse. Something was in the middle between the eagle and the base, that much is clearly evident. Now, I too am very curious.
Mark
Very, very nice Vern. Glad you missed the northern Virginia quake of 2011. I had more than one case fall from my walls, but daggers are more forgiving than porcelain.
Mark's Eagle ...
Mark,
Will try to post your other snaps after work ...
B~
Nice Cedar Waxwing
Waxwing 2
Rosenthal owl by Wilhelm Veit ...
Mark, these early owls by Veit are very collectible and highly sought after, this example especially so. Very nice.
The eagle looks like a ceramic to me and unfortunately I can't make out the marking, sorry.
I like this Waxwing model, simple and elegant. Is it a Rosenthal? Do you have the Allach Seidenschwanz, too? Sometime in the future it would be great to compare the two side by side.
Thanks for sharing all these nice figures with us!
Bill
Veit 2/4
Veit 3/4
Lovely painted detail to the feathers ...
Veit 4/4
1910 Rosenthal mark ...
Thanks Bill! The waxwing is Allach.
Mark
Mark,
You're welcome!
For some reason I thought you mentioned the waxwing was by a different maker ... brainfart.
So much the better that is an Allach piece.
Thanks again for sharing.
B~
Mark...LOve the coloured version of the stag (1555 numbered). I have the white version but the colour does bring him to life very well!
Great owl, Bill!
Wow! So much activity on this thread!
Bill, that is a wonderful Reiter indeed and certainly a piece I wouldn't mind adding to my collection - both as a complement to my horse herd and my terracotta Reiter bust. Also, congratulations on the Waxwing and the Owl. Both great pieces. I particularly admire the detailed coloring on the owl.
Vern, that is a jaw-dropping display, though I confess I am rather nervous to see that giant stag on a glass shelf above your Fechter! Your new Elk is magnificent, really great colors that emphasize the quality of the sculpt. Congrats!
Tristan, your white stag is stunning as well.
Delayed in responding to comments about my Hutschenreuther trotting horse. Thanks to Bill for your insight and compliments on that piece. I knew right away which two-horse Hutschenreuther piece you spoke of. The piece is entitled 'Freedom' and as you said, was sculpted by Max Fritz. A fine piece, to be sure, but for some reason has never really captured my interest. It is also one of Hutchenreuther's most common equine pieces, and at least one or two are seen for sale at any given time on ebay. But I do see the similarity between the faces of Fritz's pieces and Werner's horse.
And belatedly responding to Tristan's question of how many horses are in my herd. Well, that's a difficult question to answer, as I collect non-German/Austrian/Bavarian horse figures as well, and also pieces in metal and bronze. For the sake of relevancy I will say that I currently have around 35 porcelain or ceramic equines that were made in Germany/Austria/Bavaria. I do have my eye on another piece at present, and will certainly let you know if my luck holds out on bidding!
Keep sharing, gents! Nice to see the place hopping again.
Gents,
It's a pleasure to see the recent activity in our old porcelain thread, so many nice additions to all our collections. I'd like to thank all of you for your excellent, ongoing comments and contributions and wish everyone a successful collecting year just ahead in 2015.
Tristan, nice to see the white version of the stag in addition to Mark's decorated example. Hope your Prinz Eugene model arrives safely, I'm really looking forward to that.
Just to clear things up, Vern and I just posted these latest photos for Kingtiger, Mark. The display cabinets, stag, eagle, waxwing and owl all belong to him, we just resized and posted his snaps is all. I'm thankful for the nice additions ...
As an aside, did you know there was actually a mayor of Allach, a suburb of Munich? I never saw this photo before and thought it might be of interest. Lord Mayor Johann Bäumer.
Best!
Bill
Bill...great photo for us TR students!
Baumer was one of only a few SS men who gained the three Old Fighter awards: Gold Party Badge, Blood Order, and Coburg Badge.
His insignias denotes he was in Pioneer Sturmbann 1, which, as you point out, was based in Munich.
I think he reached the rank of Sturmbannfuhrer in 1944.
I don't know what his Imperial awards are (the second and the fourth). Maybe another member might know.
The Prinz has just arrived!! Will get it unpacked and get back to you!
This is by Rosenthal, signed by Hugo Meisel and numbered 1044. The Rosenthal logo suggests around 1940.
About 40cm in height and great detail. He appears to be carrying a Fied Marshall's baton in his right hand.
Prinz Eugen was an 18th century French-Austrian General, and of course there was an SS Mountain Division named after him composed of ethnic Germans from the Balkan regions.
While I'm at it, and it's Christmas, I thought I'd post a couple of rare Allach candle holders.
Neither are numbered, though both have the runes insignia. The smaller of the two is signed by Rohring.
..
This is by Rosenthal, signed by Hugo Meisel and numbered 1044. The Rosenthal logo suggests around 1940.
About 40cm in height and great detail. He appears to be carrying a Fied Marshall's baton in his right hand.
Prinz Eugen was an 18th century French-Austrian General, and of course there was an SS Mountain Division named after him composed of ethnic Germans from the Balkan regions.
Simply exquisite! I admit of late I've been drifting away from white glazed pieces in favor of colored ones, but this fellow is fantastic. A really fine addition to your collection. He deserves that place of pride. Congrats!
T.
Tristan,
Don't quite know where to begin, this is something truly special !
Rare doesn't begin to describe this sculpture, I wonder how many still exist? The edition must have been very limited and fairly costly, too. Surely as difficult to find as the exquisite Allach equestrian figures, in my opinion.
From your photos it looks to be a massive, robust sculpture, though, it has lots of splendid, fine details throughout. Great attention paid to the horse's bridle, nice and delicate. There are just so many wonderful aspects of this model to appreciate, all of which make for a fantastic display item. Surely you're very pleased with this purchase, and I'm glad to see it arrived safely.
I can tell you honestly that I'm very happy to have the Prinz grace our thread, it won't be seen elsewhere too often. Your fine candle holders are just in time for the winter solstice, many thanks for these lovely additions.
Let me take this time to wish all my friends a very Merry Christmas and prosperous, healthy New Year in 2015.
Thanks mates !
Bill W.
Thanks, gents. It is an exciting piece to add to the collection and I have since found images of the particular statue it is based upon...in a square in Vienna where the Prinz died.
All the best to all for Christmas and for a good year!
*Puts on best "Most Interesting Man In the World" impression* I don't usually buy animals other than horses, but when I do...
Just received this large, handsome Royal Vienna style raptor. A black 'beehive' mark inside the base indicates that it is possibly a piece by Ackermann & Fritze, though I have yet to locate a piece as fine as this by that firm. Sadly unsigned by the artist, but magnificent in every way. I found his glass eyes to be an unusual treatment, and gives the figure an even more lifelike appearance. Measuring in at a regal 14+ inches tall, this is intended to be a Christmas / birthday present to someone very dear to me (which means it will be staying here in the house anyway *winks*).
So gents, can any of you identify this fine bird? I defer to your collective expertise!
Regards and Merry Christmas to all!
T.
And a close-up of the talons, for Bill Warda's appreciation.
T.
T,
NICE !!
May I say what an excellent choice adding this two-legged raptor to your collection of four-legged warmbloods. Your photographs really bring this handsome bird to life.
Most unusual to see the use of glass-eyes here, and in this case a delightful touch, as they're perfectly placed to add a sharp, distinct focal point to the head. It really captures that alert, stern look that's so familiar to birds of prey. Marvelous feather detail in the layering of the wings to the body and tail structure, and I also like the way the artist seperated the feathers in front of the birds left leg, great touch, too. Fantastic work fashioning the legs and talons, it really conveys the power of the bird's iron grasp. Woe to any mouse or vole with those claws holding it fast ... dinner!
Not a clue as to who the artist might be, however, he/she really had a deep appreciation and understanding of these birds. Without that, this fine sculpture would never exist.
Great post, thank you.
... stay thirsty my friends !
Bill
What a great thread, guys!
Keep them coming. I just love to see these fantastic items and sit in awe at the knowledge displayed by you all.
Merry Christmas from the Great White North.
John
Rosenthal "The Victor". Just aquired.
Another view.
What an exquisite piece. One can certainly feel the triumph of the victor. The inclusion of the felled opponent is a particularly interesting detail since most stags in this thread are depicted alone. The glazing is beautifully rich and detailed, also. A rare and marvelous addition to your collection. Well done, sir!
And Happy New Year to all.
T.
The power and grandeur of the piece comes through in the coloring...well found!
The Rosenthal logo dates it to 1949.
Thanks for the date of Manufacture, Tristan. I had no idea that Rosenthal made this many different Elk's and found this one on ebay. It came from an old family whose grandfather worked in the Rosenthal factory.
Mark
Mark,
WOW!I absolutely love this piece! You can never go wrong with Rosenthal.
Mark,
It's amazing what can be found if one stays his hand at collecting German porcelain. This rare, beautiful example is seldom-seen and a great find for the advanced collector. Congratulations on adding this to your collection.
I know the piece was sculpted by the well known artist Max Hermann Fritz, (13. July 1873 - †13. June 1948) but the year of initial production eludes me. We know that Fritz studied at Lorenz Hutschenreuther as a young man and moved to work in Dresden in 1898. There he worked for Meissen, Hutschenreuther, Fraureuth and Rosenthal. The Rosenthal model number 1000 seems to indicate an earlier production date than the 1949 company marking, which would have been the year after his death. That's why I think it was done at an earlier date rather than later, most likely in the 1920's. There are several examples of Fritz' animals found in our thread and like his contemporary Kärner, he was a most prolific artist. He produced many fine bear sculptures like the one I'll add.
Many thanks for adding this fine work!
Bill
I like the majestic stags, bears and larger birds of the 20's - 40's. The realism of Allach is at the top with Rosenthal, Nymphenberg and a very few others, but none with the fine detail of Allach. (in my opinion, which is heavily weighted to Allach). The rarity of this Rosenthal Elks model is unknown to me. Because I already owned the Large Rosenthal "The bugeling Elk", I knew the quality of their attention to detail on this subject. It was a 'make an offer' purchase on Ebay. I did, and It's now on it's way from Munich. The ebay pictures were just stunning. This is a BIG Elk! I had never seen this "The victor" before and it's in the Rosenthal catalog of the day. That was shown in the ebay listing.
Thanks for the comments, it looks like an uncommon find!
Mark
Bill, I agree it is confusing with a production number of 1000 that would seem to date it in the late 1920s, but with the Schiffer book on Rosenthal showing this logo (the combination of the Roses with 'Bahnhof Selb, Germany', and the single 'dot')as being 1949. See image, top centre.
Could an early piece be reissued at a later date perhaps?
Tristan,
You're absolutely correct, that's a 1949 logo, which would have been used on a re-issue production run from that specific year. They never include the initial production year - unless we're lucky enough to find one of those regarding any model.
Best!
B~
It's been awful quiet so thought I'd post my favourite Allach piece.
This is the Dragooner, no. 131 by R. Forster. I hope someone will have the coloured version to post!!!
Tristan,
I once saw a photo of this model in color, though, the sculpture in white is as superb as it is rare. Great find !!
Thanks and best regards,
Bill
Thanks, Bill. The close up detail in the piece is superb!
We haven't heard from Bill for some time...is he OK?
Tristan, I was trying to identify my roan rearing dappled horse that has a Royal Dux stamp in blue ink inside a raised Octagon like ALLACH. It also has A.Rohring with the umlatt and "881" on top of an "85" impressions in the base of the statue. I found the Allach # 95 white rearing stallion and after reviewing the photos realized that the 881 is very similar but is not the #95 Allach. Do you know if while Germany controlled Czechoslovakia after WWII that A. Rohring might have stamped his work as Royal Dux while working at the ALLACH factory? Because Royal Dux porcelain should have a pink triangle on it somewhere (
http://www.vernerporc.de/roan-pferd-luxor-881) This website shows my roan stallion and it is labeled as Royal Dux but mine does not have a pink triangle but does have the Allach Octagon. Very strange. His ears are damaged; I was thinking about sending him to a very good porcelain repair shop in Italy that I sent an Augarten rearing stallion to.
Starzagazin. Sorry, I don't have an answer for you re Rohring's Rearing Horse. I, too, have one like yours except it is numbered 88 (as well as the 881), and has the Allach octagon but this contains no logo of any kind.
I would certainly have the ears repaired as this would not be a big or expensive job.
hi members
can any one tell me where or how is our buddy and main man bill warder ww2 is he ok sure hope so maybe perhaps a long deserved vacation he is due please if any one hears please let us know what say baz any news best andy militarynut
Bill is fine,
I have just returned from a trip over to see him, he's just taking a sabbatical from collecting for a while.
Gary
That's good news! I think some of us were beginning to worry.
hi baz
thank you very much and so glad he is doing good he deserves a rest tell him we are missing him here this friend of so many years of friendship and is so knowledgble in his field and very helpfull to all guys here on this great forum hurry up back bill gott mitt uns bill andy militarynut
Good to know William is OK.
--dj--Joe
Tristan, I was trying to identify my roan rearing dappled horse that has a Royal Dux stamp in blue ink inside a raised Octagon like ALLACH. It also has A.Rohring with the umlatt and "881" on top of an "85" impressions in the base of the statue. I found the Allach # 95 white rearing stallion and after reviewing the photos realized that the 881 is very similar but is not the #95 Allach. Do you know if while Germany controlled Czechoslovakia after WWII that A. Rohring might have stamped his work as Royal Dux while working at the ALLACH factory? Because Royal Dux porcelain should have a pink triangle on it somewhere (
http://www.vernerporc.de/roan-pferd-luxor-881) This website shows my roan stallion and it is labeled as Royal Dux but mine does not have a pink triangle but does have the Allach Octagon. Very strange. His ears are damaged; I was thinking about sending him to a very good porcelain repair shop in Italy that I sent an Augarten rearing stallion to.
For what it's worth, not all Royal Dux pieces have the pink triangle applied to the base. I have seen Dux pieces with just a blue-green underglaze mark with the name of the company.
Here's a website with a lot of detail about Royal Dux markings that can help with dating pieces: http://www.realorrepro.com/article/Royal-Dux:
With regard to restoration of the horse in question, it appears to be recent production based on the colorway (this horse was also produced in chestnut, dappled chestnut, a more speckled dapple gray, and glazed white bisque in addition to the dapple gray shown here). I would hesitate to invest too much money to have it professionally restored because these guys appear on Ebay on a somewhat regular basis. I believe they are still being produced by the company, or were at least produced through the 1990s and there may still be a lot of deadstock around. They can be had mint with packaging for about $150, perhaps as low as $100 if you're lucky. (I note that the website you linked to has that horse at around $150 after conversion to USD)
Just my two cents from years of collecting and researching horse figures.
T.
Also great to hear that Mr. Warda is doing well. Thanks for the update!
T.
Been a quiet summer on the collecting front but lucky to have picked up these two Allach pieces recently.
First is the 'Madchen nach den Bade' by Ricard Forster, no. 73 and according to Dennis Porell's book only 100 pieces produced in 1938 1nd 1939.
Second, and one of my favourite pieces, is the 'Mutter und Kind' by P. Horn, no. 98, his only Allach piece. The detail is superb and the mother almost 'lives' her adoration for the child.
Advice needed, please.
What is a fair collector to collector price for the Allach
Munchner Kind ? She is in perfect condition and for the past 25 years has been the property of my wife, who now wishes me to sell this figurine for her.
I sold all my Allach 25 years back, but gifted this piece to my wife. I am out of touch with value so would much appreciate a guide price before entering the piece on the Estand. Thank you.
These come up fairly regularly in German art/militaria auctions although I must admit I do not follow the prices.
I would imagine a figure in the region of £700 would not be far way. Third Reich Arts has one at the moment that has some damage to it and he is asking 725USD.
Hello Gents,
Just sharing a long-overdue update on equines I've added to my ever-evolving herd since the beginning of the year. I've been very fortunate to have a string of good luck in negotiating purchases from private collectors, and the occasional Ebay find. As it was, I had to part with many of my lower-tier pieces to accommodate these new acquisitions, but I hope you will agree that the sacrifice was worth the results. And now, without further ado...
Ca. 1950's Rosenthal standing foal sculpted by Professor Theodore Karner:
Ca. 1935 Hutschenreuther pony stallion sculpted by Fritz Diller:
Enormous (14" tall!)Hutschenreuther piece depicting a Riding School of Vienna Lipizzaner in Levade pose with rider (This piece is more commonly seen in a smaller scale version that was produced for many decades, but the larger size shown here seems to have been produced in the latter 20th century):
Now for a couple of pieces from Germany's neighbor to the North, Denmark.
Ca. 1938 Royal Copenhagen Windswept Horse sculpted by Lauritz Jensen:
And last but not least, the Crown Jewel of my collection, an outstanding example of a ca. 1935 Royal Copenhagen Cart Horse sculpted by Carl-Johan Bonnesen:
Yup, definitely been busy!
Happy hunting, all!
T.
As a follow-up to the image spree above, I seem to recall someone requested a "family portrait" of some of my horses. Here are the two Danish draft horses, plus another Danish drafter (this time Bing & Grondahl) that has been in my collection for a few years. This grouping has been dubbed "The Holy Trinity" by other collectors, lol.
T.
Very nice, but my favorite must be the Lipizzaner!
Thank you, Tristan! And yes, the Lipizzaner piece is extremely impressive in person.
Did anyone here see/purchase this piece? I like the treatment of the fine porcelain combined with the steel helmet.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rosenthal-Allach...t-/331636979360
Hi Tiberius...Ive seen these before,but not often. They are not Rosenthal and certainly not Allach and I would guess 1920s.
I have a similar bust, but without the black helmet and the tunic collar. The makers emblem is a blue crown, un-numbered. The quality is not that good close up!
It is Rosenthal and a totally different piece.
Tristan, I'm confused. Are you saying that the green Rosenthal mark and the Rosenthal catalog documentation for the Ebay piece have been forged? They look pretty authentic to me.
T.
Sorry, guys...my fault. When I clicked on the eBay link I got no details as I was told it had been sold. I have no reason to doubt it is a Rosenthal piece, and that mine is an entirely different bust.
...if I could add something more it is doubt about the date of the piece. The stock number of 710 would date it 1924 and not 1932 as claimed in the advert, but it is not possible to check this as there is no photo of the Rosenthal logo.
Thanks, Tiberius....more care less haste!
Looking at the logo it is as near to the 1932 logo as (possibly) makes no difference, but in the book there is no 'dot' underneath the joining of the two rose stems. Maybe the answer is that Karner,s design was in the 1920s and reissued in 1932.
Haven't had anything to post for some time but I picked up a couple of RPT plates recently.
The pewter one is specifically for the 1933 rally, but the other two are general.
Nice commemorative rally plates.
Isn't there a Nurnberg pewter plate that has Hitler saluting troops scene?
Yes, there is and it comes up from time to time.
Hello all ,
please have a look on this Foxterrier made by Pfeffer M?hle and in my family since 1937 :
[img]http://http://s1051.photobucket.com/user/saturnin73/media/DSCN4031_zps6gi22nva.jpg.html[/img]
S+
***please anyone helps me to open the pic , tks ***
Hello and merry Thanksgiving ,
after many trials here is my Fox-Terrier
http://phpstack-500133-1583587.cloudwaysapps.com/~germand2/tmp/193874.jpg
This thread is a wealth of information and images. A tribute to the man who started it and everyone who contributed to it.
--dj--Joe