Goebel FigurinesMore than a century ago in 1876, the first building that would house the factory was built as a result of the dream of Franz Detleff and the helping hands of his son William Goebel. In the early days, they produced quality dinnerware and a few porcelain figurines. William had a knack for spotting trends before they happened, and he expanded the product line and changed the company name to W.Goebel Porzellanfabrik (W Goebel Porcelain Makers in English). It was he who realized the importance of the American market and with the help of his son, Max Louis, brought his father's dream to a whole new level. Years later, young Max would set the stage for the famous Hummel figurines by regularly using popular artwork for the basis of porcelain figurines. In 1934, his son Franz was searching for something to bring a new face to the company, especially in those years of financial and political turmoil. The artwork of a Franciscan nun named Maria Innocentia Hummel whose playful designs were being reproduced on cards at that time came to Franz's attention and their collaboration would eventually lead to the Hummel line of figurines, which became the main focus of the company and has remained so until this very day. Before they began producing the Hummel figurines, though, Goebel was already quite successful with their own line of figurines which most often depicted animals, birds and flowers, which were popular household decorations of the time. They especially had an extensive line of bird figurines, with species from bluebirds to titmice and everything in between. Another favorite line of Goebels figurines are the Whoosit collection, a whimsical set of minimally painted children whose hats are pulled down over their eyes in a playful way. These stand out among their other figurines since they often only feature one or two colors on a white base, and are always very popular online and in shops. Just as with any type of collectibles, you're probably going to want to know how much those pieces you dug out of the attic or found at auction are worth. Almost any professional appraiser with experience in collectible porcelain figurines will be glad to take a look at your collection and will be able to tell you exact Goebel figurine values. If you're just trying to get a general idea of the value of your collection, however, a current Goebel price guide is an indispensable resource. Since the Goebel company is mostly devoted to Hummel figurines these days, not as many lay people are knowledgeable about them and therefore a reliable price guide can be your best friend at an auction or in an antique shop. To this day, all Goebel figurines are hand painted and individually cast in keeping with the original aims of the company, so each one has the potential to be a little different. Like any fine porcelain, a Goebel figurine value will vary with their condition, age and rarity. Employing the assistance of a professional appraiser is the preferred method if you really want to get the most accurate value of your collectibles. Though they will probably be best remembered for their Hummel figurine line, the Goebel company also created some wonderful pieces under their own name and label that absolutely should not be missed if you're a topical porcelain collector, especially if you like birds and animals. Goebel figurines many not be as well known as their best-selling counterparts, but they are every bit as loveable and popular among those who are in the know about porcelain figurines. |