12 Vintage Porcelain Figurines Worth a Small Fortune

Vintage porcelain figurines are more than just decorative pieces; they are treasured works of art. Some of the most expensive figurines ever collected have captivated collectors for their intricate craftsmanship and rare designs. These pieces often reflect the artistic trends of their time, with limited production making them even more valuable. From delicate depictions of animals to romantic scenes, each figurine tells its own story. For collectors, owning one of these rare pieces is a dream come true.

This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Rare Sevres Figurines

Sevres porcelain was first produced in the 18th century in France and became famous for its delicate artistry and royal patronage. The rare Sevres figurines, often created for the French aristocracy, are valued for their fine porcelain and the skill required to craft them. Their high market value, estimated between $50,000 and $2 million, comes from their rarity, age, and the prestige of the Sevres name. Only a small number of rare Sevres figurines remain, making them highly sought after by collectors.

What makes these figurines expensive is not just their age but the use of luxurious materials and attention to detail in their design. They often feature elaborate hand-painted scenes, floral motifs, and detailed facial expressions. Sevres porcelain was historically commissioned by kings and queens, adding to its royal status. These figurines remain symbols of fine French craftsmanship and European history.

Lladro Antique Figurines

Lladro is a Spanish porcelain manufacturer known for creating fine figurines, often depicting serene scenes of everyday life and nature. Established in 1953, Lladro figurines gained popularity over time for their artistic appeal and high-quality porcelain. Antique Lladro figurines, particularly those from the 1950s and 1960s, can range in value from $500 to over $100,000. Their high value is due to their rarity, limited production, and the quality of craftsmanship.

Lladro’s figurines often feature delicate porcelain, hand-painted details, and graceful designs. The company has created iconic figurines such as The Dancer and The White Dove, which are highly valued by collectors. Collectors seek these figurines for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and beauty. As Lladro figurines continue to be highly sought after, the value of older pieces only increases with time.

Royal Doulton Antique Figurines

Royal Doulton, established in 1815 in England, has produced some of the finest porcelain figurines in history. Known for their elegance and craftsmanship, Royal Doulton figurines feature themes ranging from everyday life to whimsical characters. Antique figurines from Royal Doulton can be valued from $500 to over $50,000 depending on rarity, condition, and desirability. The company’s connection to British culture and history contributes to the high value of these figurines.

These figurines are recognized for their fine detailing, and many feature intricate hand-painted designs. Iconic figures such as The Old Balloon Seller and The Bather are highly collectible. The popularity of Royal Doulton figurines is driven by their long-standing reputation for quality and their place in porcelain history. Antique figurines from this company are particularly valuable because of their age and the limited numbers produced.

Royal Nymphenburg figurines

Royal Nymphenburg, a German porcelain manufacturer, has been producing porcelain figurines since the 18th century. Known for their fine craftsmanship and attention to detail, Nymphenburg figurines are highly prized by collectors. These figurines can range in value from $1,000 to several million dollars, depending on their rarity and condition. The high value is attributed to their historical significance, delicate artistry, and the prestigious reputation of the company.

The figurines created by Nymphenburg often feature lifelike depictions of animals, historical scenes, and mythological figures. Their detailed craftsmanship, including hand-painting and careful sculpting, makes them exceptional works of art. These pieces are highly valued for their quality, scarcity, and unique design. Collectors often seek out rare Nymphenburg figurines due to their artistic appeal and historical importance.

Dresden Lace Figurines

Dresden Lace figurines are a unique type of porcelain created by the Dresden Porcelain Manufactory in Germany. These figurines, typically featuring elegant ladies in lace-trimmed dresses, are known for their fine detailing and delicate craftsmanship. Their value ranges from $1,000 to over $100,000, depending on their rarity, condition, and the intricacy of the lace detailing. The figurines are expensive due to their delicate nature and historical importance.

What sets Dresden Lace figurines apart is the painstaking handcrafting of the lace elements, which are often made from fine porcelain and attached by hand. The figurines feature beautiful porcelain flowers and elaborate dresses, which require immense skill to produce. Their historical significance and limited production contribute to their desirability among collectors. The lace design, combined with the fine porcelain craftsmanship, makes these figurines highly collectible.

Doccia Porcelain Figurines

Doccia porcelain figurines were created in the 18th century by the Doccia Porcelain Manufactory in Italy, known for producing some of the finest porcelain pieces in Europe. These figurines are admired for their lifelike detailing and historical value, with an estimated market value of $5,000 to $50,000 depending on their rarity. The high value is attributed to the company’s artisanal skills and the porcelain’s fine quality.

Doccia porcelain is highly sought after due to its historical significance, as it represents a significant period in Italian porcelain production. The figurines often feature mythological figures, animals, and scenes from everyday life. Due to their age and limited production, these figurines are rare, which drives up their value among collectors.

Chelsea Porcelain – The Itinerant Musician Figurines

The Itinerant Musician was created by Chelsea Porcelain in the 18th century and features a musician playing an instrument in a lively pose. The figurine is valued at approximately $50,000 due to its rarity, age, and fine detailing. Its high market value comes from its historical significance as one of Chelsea’s most iconic pieces.

Chelsea porcelain is known for its high-quality figures, and this piece is a prime example of the company’s artistry. The intricate detailing of the musician’s clothing and instrument contributes to the figurine’s beauty and value. As one of the few surviving examples of this piece, The Itinerant Musician is highly sought after by collectors.

Precious Moments Figurines

Precious Moments figurines, first produced in 1978 by Samuel J. Butcher, are beloved for their sentimental and whimsical designs. These figurines feature children and animals depicted in heartwarming, emotional scenes. While they are not as expensive as some antique porcelain pieces, certain rare editions can be valued up to $5,000. The value comes from their popularity, sentimental value, and the rarity of limited edition pieces.

The figurines are crafted with care and feature soft, pastel colors and gentle expressions that appeal to collectors. The Precious Moments collection grew rapidly in popularity, with many figurines being produced in limited quantities. Rare pieces, such as the Mister & Misses Christmas edition, are especially valuable. Collectors prize these figurines for their nostalgic and emotional appeal.

Hummel Figurines

Hummel figurines, created by the German company W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik, are known for their charming depictions of children and animals. These figurines, produced since the 1930s, are popular among collectors for their whimsical designs. While most Hummel figurines are relatively affordable, rare pieces can be valued up to $50,000 or more.

The value of Hummel figurines is influenced by their rarity, condition, and the popularity of specific models. Certain figurines, such as The Apple Tree Boy and The Last Supper, are particularly valuable due to their limited production. The market for Hummel figurines continues to remain strong due to their sentimental and nostalgic appeal.

Albert Caasmann – Sleeping Faune Figurine

The Sleeping Faune was created by German porcelain artist Albert Caasmann in the early 20th century. This figurine depicts a faun sleeping peacefully, showcasing Caasmann’s delicate artistry. The market value for this figurine is estimated at $200,000, making it a rare and highly collectible piece.

The Sleeping Faune is admired for its lifelike depiction of the faun’s relaxed posture and intricate detail. Caasmann’s expertise in capturing natural forms in porcelain sets this figurine apart from others. The rarity of the piece and its delicate design make it a prized collectible among porcelain enthusiasts.

Occupied Japan Figurines

Occupied Japan figurines were created after World War II during the American occupation of Japan, from 1945 to 1952. These figurines are characterized by their bright colors and intricate designs, often depicting animals, people, and floral scenes. The market value of these figurines ranges from $20 to $2,000, depending on the piece’s rarity and condition.

Occupied Japan figurines were mass-produced and sold primarily to the American market, making them accessible at the time. However, certain rare designs, especially those with fine details and vibrant colors, have become highly collectible. The historical context and craftsmanship contribute to the value of these figurines today.

Lalique Figurine

Lalique is a French manufacturer known for creating exquisite crystal figurines, particularly in the Art Deco style. The Lalique figurine collection includes delicate depictions of animals, dancers, and natural forms, each with fine detailing. Some of the rare Lalique pieces are valued at $500,000 or more, particularly those created in the early 20th century.

Lalique figurines are highly sought after due to their intricate design and high-quality crystal. Their historical significance and the artistry involved in their creation contribute to their value. Lalique’s commitment to elegance and craftsmanship makes these figurines a prized addition to any collection.

Vintage porcelain figurines are highly sought after for their beauty, craftsmanship, and rarity. Each piece on this list represents a unique chapter in the history of porcelain art. Whether created in the 18th century or the early 20th century, these figurines continue to captivate collectors worldwide. Their timeless appeal and high market value make them truly remarkable treasures in the world of fine art.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.