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One of the most famous collectible figurine lines the "Hummel" collection is made by Goebel. More than 100 years ago the German Pottery maker Franz Detleff and his son William Goebel. In the early days of the company they were the purveyors of mostly dinnerware. It was Max that had the eye for spotting trends and the figurine became a staple of the Goebel line. The other very collectible figurines are the ones inspired by artist Charlot BYJ. These are the well-known redheaded children that have become the second most collectible figurine in the Goebel line.
Gilbert Beswick makes the famous figurines of the Beatrix Potter characters. The company also began as makers of Antique Bone China dinner services. When he decided to go into the figurine business his plan was to emulate the Royal Doulton line of ladies but his daughter Lucy suggested that they use the characters of one of her favorite writers Beatrix Potter and the rest is history.
Royal Doulton is one of the most renowned names in England. If you are talking fine china and collectible figurines in that country you will hear more than you bargained for about this illustrious company. Family owned and operated for decades. Though they came to the pottery table later than most of the bigger names in England they proved they had what it took to be on top. The company closed its last factory in 2005 and now most of the new figurines that carry the mark of Royal Doulton are being made in Indonesia. Do not fret the really fine stuff is still being made in England.Though Waterford is best known for its crystal and china patterns it is no stranger to the figurine markets. Waterford crystal figurines command a high price and are sought after by avid collectors. They are especially looking to get their hands on the stuff made back in the 1800's. Waterford/Wedgwood are now the parent company of Royal Doulton.
The Llardo brothers, Jose, Juan and Vicente started a small pottery business in a the village of Almacera near Valencia in Spain. They were making only jugs and vases for a time. In '56 they started making these amazing sculptures and the reception was more than enthusiastic. The small workshop was soon too small to contain the growing business and they moved twice before settling into the shop located in Taverenes Blanques. They have some of the most unique figurines and the process it self is no secret. Though they look like fine porcelain, they are actually made from a hard pasty porcelain blend. It is the glaze, which is a heavily guarded secret that gives these figurines their great looks.
You can learn more about these and more famous figurine makers online or at your local library.
