Sunday, November 7, 2021

Lady Madonna

This graceful and serene Madonna and child is a vintage figurine by the German company of William Goebel inspired by the artwork of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel (1909-1946).

Born Berta Hummel, after graduating from the prestigious Academy of Applied Arts in Munich, she joined the Franciscan Sisters of Siessen in 1931, taking her new name. Her drawings of children became popular after they began appearing on postcards in the 1930s. Goebel acquired the rights produce figurines based on Hummel's artwork, introducing the first Hummel figurines in 1935. Hummel figurines became popular in the United States following the end of WWII, when American soldiers stationed in Germany began sending the charming and beautifully crafted Hummel figurines home as gifts. This closeup of the holy mother and child shows both the artistic skill of Hummel and the fine workmanship of Goebel.

Hummel figurines carry a facsimile of her signature.

The mark on the bottom of the figurine features a drawing of a large bumblebee flying through the letter "V." In 1950, Goebel honored Hummel by changing its trademark to the bumblebee, as her name means "bumblebee" in German. The "V" stands for “Verkaufsgesellschat” (distribution company). This mark, called the "full bee" by collectors, was used until 1955. 


All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New but things can sell quickly!

15557-78









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