From its humble beginnings in 19th-century Germany to its position as a globally recognized producer of porcelain figurines and decorative art, Goebel has captured the hearts of collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.
In this blog, we explore Goebel's history and artistic innovations and answer some of your most frequently asked questions about the brand and its products.
The History of Goebel
Goebel was founded in 1871 by Franz Detleff Goebel and his son William in Oeslau, Germany (now Rödental). Their vision was to create high-quality porcelain items that combined functionality with beauty. Initially, the company produced utilitarian items such as dinnerware, but by the late 19th century, Goebel shifted its focus to decorative and artistic pieces, cementing its reputation as a leader in fine porcelain.
Goebel is celebrated not only for its adherence to traditional craftsmanship but also for its innovative techniques. One such innovation was the introduction of color underglaze decoration, which allowed Goebel to create vibrant, durable figurines. This technique elevated the aesthetic appeal of its products and set a high standard in porcelain artistry, further solidifying its reputation for excellence.
One of the defining moments in Goebel’s history came in the 1930s when the company partnered with Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel, a German nun and artist. Inspired by her charming drawings of children and pastoral life, Goebel began producing the now-iconic Hummel figurines, which quickly became an international sensation.
Goebel's Hummel line eventually expanded to include plates, bells, music boxes, and other collectible items, offering something for every type of collector. Each Hummel piece is meticulously hand-painted, embodying the warmth and innocence of childhood while maintaining the brand’s hallmark of exceptional craftsmanship.
Following World War II, Goebel gained popularity in the United States, as American soldiers brought Hummel figurines home as souvenirs. This cultural connection helped establish Goebel as a beloved name in decorative porcelain worldwide.
FAQs About Goebel
Is Goebel the same as Hummel?
Not exactly. Hummel figurines are a specific product line created by Goebel in collaboration with Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel. While Hummel figurines are a major part of Goebel’s legacy, the brand also produces other figurines, such as animal sculptures, decorative plates, and contemporary art-inspired collections, which are not part of the Hummel line.
Besides Hummel, what products does Goebel offer?
Goebel offers a diverse array of products that cater to various tastes and occasions:
Holiday and Seasonal Decor
Goebel’s holiday collections are a staple for festive decorating and thoughtful gifting. Their angel figurines, often depicted holding stars or instruments, bring a serene charm to Christmas décor. Nativity sets, crafted with exquisite attention to detail, include Mary, Joseph, and the Christ child in timeless designs. For a touch of whimsy, Winter Wonderland ornaments feature hand-painted snowmen, reindeer, and Santa Claus. Limited-edition releases, like the Hummel holiday bells, showcase delightful seasonal scenes and add a collectible element to the festivities.
Modern Decorative Pieces
Goebel embraces contemporary design with pieces that blend artistry and function. The Artis Orbis vases, inspired by iconic works such as Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss or Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, are vibrant statement pieces that merge fine art with home décor. Minimalist abstract porcelain sculptures, like flowing forms or depictions of dancers, highlight modern elegance. Additionally, Goebel’s stylized animal figurines, featuring clean lines and modern colour palettes, provide a sophisticated update to traditional designs.
Limited Editions and Collectibles
For collectors, Goebel’s limited-edition pieces hold immense value and charm. Hummel figurines released in limited numbers, such as anniversary editions or seasonal themes, come with unique markings and certificates of authenticity. The exclusive Artis Orbis collections, including decorative plates or sculptures based on masterpieces like Klimt’s Adele Bloch-Bauer, bring the allure of fine art into limited-run collectibles. Annual releases, like the Goebel Angel series, offer a fresh design each year, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts. Seasonal pieces like the Santa on Sleigh figurine or Children’s Choir sets add a rare and festive touch to holiday collections.
How do you identify Goebel figurines?
Most Goebel figurines are marked with the Goebel logo, which has evolved over the years. Common identifiers include:
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A stylized bee within a "V" (used on Hummel figurines from 1950 onward).
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The word "Goebel" or "W. Germany" is on the base.
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Limited-edition pieces often include serial numbers or special stamps.
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For Hummel figurines, look for Sister Hummel’s signature or distinctive features, such as the pastoral and childlike charm of the designs.
What does the "R" mean on a Hummel figurine?
The "R" simply stands for "registered" and was used on some Hummel figurines. It doesn’t necessarily indicate rarity, but it may help identify the era in which the figurine was produced.
Are Goebel figurines valuable?
Goebel figurines can be valuable, particularly rare or limited-edition pieces in excellent condition. The value depends on several factors, including the figurine’s age, design, and market demand.
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Older Hummel figurines, especially those produced before 1950 and marked with the Crown logo, are highly sought after by collectors.
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Limited-edition releases, such as anniversary Hummel figurines or seasonal designs, often come with certificates of authenticity and command higher prices.
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Decorative pieces from the Artis Orbis collection, featuring famous artworks, are also popular among collectors.
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To determine a figurine’s value, it’s essential to assess its markings, condition, and rarity and compare it to similar items on collector websites or at auctions.
Goebel - Final Thoughts
Goebel’s enduring success lies in its commitment to quality and its ability to adapt to changing artistic trends while staying true to its heritage. Whether through its classic Hummel figurines, bold Artis Orbis designs, or modern decorative pieces, Goebel continues to inspire and captivate collectors worldwide.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or discovering Goebel for the first time, each piece offers a story and a connection to the past. From the innocence of Hummel figurines to the bold artistry of Klimt-inspired décor, Goebel’s creations are more than objects—they are expressions of culture, history, and imagination.
Find Top Porcelain Figurines at Around the Block
Around the Block is Toronto’s premiere destination for all the top porcelain figurine brands, including Goebel, Hummel, Royal Doulton, Lladro, Capodimonte, Coalport, Royal Copenhagen, and more. Whether you want to sell or buy collectible figurines on consignment, we’ve got you covered. Because we only use certified appraisers to evaluate every item that comes into our inventory, you can have confidence knowing that the figurines you buy are authentic and appropriately valued. Shop our distinct selection of porcelain figures online, or visit us to see our complete selection of home furnishings, decor, furniture, and more.
