Source : the age
A porcelain figurine on a swing embellished with garlands of roses or a couple closely entwined could be considered romantic – but for many, it would more commonly be regarded as kitsch.
But when they’re made by studios such Meissen or Royal Doulton, these porcelain figures can fetch significant prices. If there are two crossed swords at the base, the Meissen hallmark, they can also be an investment.
Some of these dancing figurines formed part of one’s grandparents’ glass cabinet, kept out of reach of children and grandchildren. And some of these treasures are still available at auction houses or, if you are fortunate, yours for just a few dollars at a local opportunity shop.
While such ornaments were considered kitsch for several decades, younger people are today displaying their grandparents’ figurines or buying their own.
For those looking to buy, try Roundabout Antiques in Toowoomba. “My clients are looking for quality pieces that go beyond what I refer to as ‘fast fashion’,” says Robert Neilson, owner of Roundabout, whose parents established the business he has been working in for the last 35 years.
Neilson picks up a Royal Doulton figurine from the late 1920s-early ’30s called The Mermaid, with a price tag of $1400 (including GST). Created by the artist Harry Tittensor, this highly glazed figurine has long blonde hair with green seaweed highlights.
“I’ve only seen a few of these appear in my time,” he adds. Other figurines on display are The Perfect Pair, created by Lessie Harradine, also from the same period. Retailing for $990, this figure drew inspiration from the Regency period.
Many Baby Boomers would have grown up with Royal Doulton’s Bunnykins – whether bowls, mugs or plates, produced from the 1970s. “They appeal to the inner child in us,” says Neilson, who has Bunnykins from under $100 to more than $1000.
Neilson even contributed to creating a Bunnykin figure, complete with a Ned Kelly helmet, with one of these priced at $650 going to an American buyer. There are also Beswick Beatrix Potter jugs at Roundabout that can sell from $100 up to a few thousands.
“People of all ages love farm animals. They might be recalling memories growing up on a farm or simply seeing a lighter side to design,” says Neilson, who emphasises that the maker, condition and importantly, whether it “speaks to you”, contributes to the appeal.
Designer Melanie Beynon also emphasises the importance of connecting with pieces, whether they’re considered kitsch or high design. “It could be something that you spotted in a second-hand store on a holiday or something that was once on your grandmother’s shelf, sadly only connecting with it more when you need to pack up her house,” says Beynon.
Some of these whimsical figurines are now behind a mirrored vanity door in her bathroom. “I get enormous pleasure every time I open up the cupboard, whether it’s a bird or a dancing couple, design can feel a bit stitched up if it’s taken too seriously,” she adds.
Christian McCann Auctions in Abbotsford, Melbourne, regularly sell Derby and Chelsea porcelain figurines from as early as the 18th century. These include classical maidens with baskets of flowers, selling for between $1000 and $1500.
“Many people assume that ‘chintzy’ antiques, whether furniture or objects, have gone out of fashion. They haven’t. It’s more that people’s tastes have changed with many now combining contemporary objects with those of the past to great effect,” says McCann who helms the auction house.
And if you are lucky enough to own a rare piece by Meissen, from say the 19th century, many are now selling at auction, with the hammer falling at $5000 or above.
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Stephen Crafti is a specialist in contemporary design, including architecture, furniture, fashion and decorative arts.
