A Guide to Volkstedt Figurines

Volkstedt figurines represent a distinctive tradition within German porcelain, characterized by elaborate lace work, romantic subjects, and the charming aesthetic of Thuringian ceramic craftsmanship. 

Founded in 1760, the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactory holds the distinction of being the oldest porcelain factory in Thuringia, a region renowned as Germany's porcelain heartland. Known particularly for their delicate lace figurines, ornate courting couples, and decorative pieces that capture Rococo elegance, Volkstedt figurines appeal to collectors who appreciate romantic, detailed porcelain sculpture. 

In this blog, we will explore Volkstedt's rich history, methods for authenticating genuine pieces, the most collectible figurine styles and series, and guidance for collectors interested in these distinctive German ceramics.

The History of Volkstedt Porcelain

The Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactory was established in 1760 by Georg Heinrich Macheleid in Volkstedt-Rudolstadt, Thuringia. The venture received the patronage of Prince Johann Friedrich von Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt, allowing the manufactory to use the designation "Fürstlich Privilegierte Porzellanfabrik" (Prince's Privileged Porcelain Factory). This early support helped Volkstedt establish itself during a period when numerous small porcelain factories competed throughout the German states.

Unlike some contemporary manufacturers that focused on dinnerware or purely decorative objects, Volkstedt developed a reputation for figurines from its early years. The manufactory drew inspiration from Meissen's success but developed its own aesthetic identity, particularly in the production of figurines depicting romantic couples, pastoral scenes, and courtly subjects rendered in the Rococo style that dominated mid-18th-century European taste.

Throughout the 19th century, Volkstedt evolved its product line while maintaining its commitment to decorative figurines. The manufactory became particularly renowned for its "Dresden-style" lace figurines—a technique involving applying actual fabric lace to porcelain figures, then firing the piece so the fabric burns away, leaving delicate porcelain lace reproductions. This painstaking process created ethereal effects in the flowing gowns of dancing couples and elegant ladies that became Volkstedt signatures.

The 20th century brought significant changes to Volkstedt. After World War II, the factory found itself in Soviet-occupied East Germany and was nationalized as part of the state-controlled economy. Despite operating under communist control from 1949 to 1990, Volkstedt continued producing figurines, though production methods and artistic direction were influenced by state planning. Following German reunification in 1990, the manufactory was privatized and continues operating today, producing both new designs and reproducing classic models from its archives.

Common Subjects of Volkstedt Figurines 

Volkstedt figurines encompass several distinctive styles and techniques that make them immediately recognizable to collectors familiar with German porcelain.

Lace Figurines

The technique that made Volkstedt famous involves creating incredibly delicate porcelain lace that adorns figurines' clothing. Courting couples in 18th-century dress, ballerinas, and elegant ladies wearing elaborate gowns with lace details exemplify this specialty. The lace work requires exceptional skill—artisans dip actual fabric lace in porcelain slip, carefully apply it to the figurine, and fire the piece at temperatures that burn away the fabric while preserving the porcelain impression. The result is lace of remarkable delicacy that seems impossibly fragile yet remains durable when properly handled.

Courting Couples and Romantic Scenes

Volkstedt became synonymous with romantic figurines depicting 18th-century couples in various states of courtship. These pieces typically show elaborately dressed gentlemen and ladies in Rococo costume engaged in flirtation, conversation, or dancing. The compositions often include decorative bases with applied flowers, scrollwork, and other ornamental elements that enhance the overall romantic effect.

Musical Subjects

Figurines depicting musicians, particularly those showing groups or couples making music together, form another Volkstedt specialty. These pieces capture the 18th-century fascination with music as refined entertainment and showcase the manufactory's ability to render complex poses and multiple figures in single compositions.

Individual Portrait Figurines 

Volkstedt produced elegant figurines of ladies and gentlemen as individual pieces rather than paired couples. These often feature elaborate costumes with lace details, graceful poses, and decorative bases, serving as display pieces that exemplify Rococo decorative arts.

Applied Flowers and Ornament 

Many Volkstedt figurines feature elaborate applied decoration—tiny porcelain flowers, leaves, and scrollwork painstakingly attached by hand. This technique, while time-consuming and requiring considerable skill, creates richly decorated pieces that epitomize the Rococo aesthetic's love of ornament.

Animal Figurines

Though less famous than its romantic figures, Volkstedt also produced animal figurines, particularly dogs, birds, and other domestic creatures rendered with charm and attention to detail.

Identifying and Authenticating Volkstedt Figurines

Authentication of Volkstedt figurines requires examining marks, quality characteristics, and stylistic elements specific to this Thuringian manufactory.

Volkstedt Marks and Identification

Volkstedt used various marks throughout its long history, with different periods employing different marking systems.

• Crown Mark: One of Volkstedt's most recognizable marks features a crown, often with the letter "R" beneath it (standing for Rudolstadt, the region where Volkstedt is located). This mark appears in various forms—sometimes underglaze blue, sometimes impressed, and sometimes printed in other colours. The crown-over-R mark helps identify Volkstedt pieces from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century.

• Crossed Hayforks: Some Volkstedt pieces bear a mark resembling crossed hayforks or tridents. This mark, used particularly in the 19th century, can be confused with similar marks used by other Thuringian manufacturers, making additional authentication methods important.

• "Volkstedt" or "Rudolstadt-Volkstedt": Many pieces include the factory name impressed or printed on the base. Later pieces, particularly those from the 20th century, often clearly state "Volkstedt" or "Rudolstadt-Volkstedt Germany."

• Model Numbers: Volkstedt assigned model numbers to many figurines, typically impressed or incised on the base. These numbers help identify specific designs and can assist in dating pieces when cross-referenced with factory records or collector references.

• "Germany" or "Made in Germany": The presence of these marks helps date pieces to after 1891, when German manufacturers began marking exports with country of origin. Pieces marked "GDR" or "DDR" (German Democratic Republic) date from the East German period between 1949 and 1990.

Popular Volkstedt Figurines and What Collectors Seek

Understanding what makes certain Volkstedt figurines more valuable helps collectors make informed decisions when buying or selling these delicate pieces.

• Period and Age: Pre-1900 Volkstedt figurines, particularly those from the 19th century, generally command higher prices than 20th-century examples. The porcelain quality, hand-painting finesse, and lace work intricacy often surpassed later productions. However, exceptional mid-20th-century pieces can also be highly collectible, particularly those produced before East German nationalization in 1949.

• Size and Complexity: Larger figurines (10 inches or taller) with multiple figures and elaborate compositions typically command premium prices. The technical challenge of creating stable, well-proportioned multi-figure groups, combined with their impressive display presence, makes these pieces particularly desirable. Single figures, while often charming, generally achieve lower prices unless exceptionally detailed or rare.

• Lace Work Quality: The intricacy, delicacy, and preservation of porcelain lace work directly affects value. Figurines with extensive lace detailing—particularly those featuring multiple layers, complex patterns, or lace that defies gravity in dramatic poses—represent the pinnacle of the technique. Collectors examine lace carefully for completeness, as even small losses diminish value significantly.

• Applied Decoration Condition: The tiny applied flowers, leaves, and ornamental elements that embellish many Volkstedt figurines are extremely fragile. Pieces retaining all or nearly all original applied decoration command substantial premiums over examples with losses. Because these elements are nearly impossible to replace convincingly, condition is paramount.

• Colour and Decoration: While many Volkstedt figurines feature pastel decoration, pieces with rich, vibrant colouring or unusual colour schemes can be particularly desirable. Gold detailing, when present and well-preserved, adds value. Hand-painted facial features should be delicate and well-executed, with careful attention to eyes, lips, and cheeks.

• Rarity and Unusual Subjects: While courting couples represent Volkstedt's bread-and-butter production, unusual subjects or rare variations command attention. Large musical groups, mythological scenes, or pieces that deviate from typical Volkstedt subjects can achieve strong prices when quality matches rarity.

• Marks and Documentation: Clearly marked pieces with identifiable model numbers are generally more desirable than unmarked examples. Original paper labels, when present, add both authenticity and historical interest. Pieces with provenance or documentation linking them to specific production periods or notable collections carry additional value.

• Condition Considerations: Given the extreme fragility of lace work and applied decoration, condition profoundly impacts value. Even professional collectors accept minor imperfections in pre-1900 pieces, recognizing that perfect examples are exceptionally rare. However, significant damage—missing lace sections, broken fingers, lost applied flowers, or repairs—substantially reduces value. Restored pieces should be disclosed, as even expert restoration affects market value compared to undamaged examples.

• Collectors should examine Volkstedt figurines carefully under good lighting, checking all delicate elements thoroughly before purchasing. The combination of quality lace work, excellent condition, appropriate age, and aesthetic appeal determines a piece's desirability in today's market.

Vintage Figurines at Around the Block

The enduring appeal of Volkstedt figurines lies in their romantic charm and the remarkable technical achievement represented by their lacework and applied decoration. These pieces transport viewers to an idealized 18th-century world of courtly elegance and refined leisure, offering both aesthetic pleasure and appreciation for exceptional ceramic craftsmanship. 

Whether you're drawn to elaborate courting couples or elegant individual figures, Volkstedt offers collectors distinctive pieces that showcase Thuringian porcelain artistry.

Around the Block carries all the top porcelain figurine brands, including Herend, Royal Doulton, Lladró, Goebel, Hummel, and more, making us Toronto's premier destination for fine porcelain collectibles. For more information about consigning or purchasing figurines, we encourage you to visit our website or drop by our showroom on Lesmill Road.