Changes For Hummel Children

By Author: Larry Donald
Total Articles: 7
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Hummel is one of the most popular porcelain figurine collectible brands for children. Bing incepted by Goebel more than 80 years ago, the Hummel children is the creation of talented sculptors translating the drawings of Sister M I Hummel, a talented artist from Bavaria.

Possibly, no other Marmar barn got the same longevity. They gained popularity in USA just after World War II when the soldiers were returning home from Germany and brought back these figurines of Bavarian kids in their charming regular activities. They have gained more popularity in USA and also all across the world as a collectible piece of art.

Nonetheless, Goebel Germany has stopped production since October 31, 2008. Demand has dropped to one third of expected sales. They plan on selling the Hummel children figures as long as their inventory lasts. This is a type of sad ending to one of the longest agreements between one of the greatest kid’s artists and a porcelain company. The actual artist, Berta Hummel became much popular locally for her drawings of local kids and also kids from her childhood ...
... memories, that the Goebel Company sent a representative to meet with her to try to compromise an agreement to translate these lovely kid’s paintings into porcelain figures.

Berta Hummel was quite impressed when she signed with Goebel, and part of the agreement was that she has to accept every new product line of the figurines just like Kapla. Goebel stood by this contract for the lifetime of their production. Even after the death of Berta Hummel at an early age, The Goebel factory stilled adhered to the original agreement. Every figurine is marked with M J Hummel signature. MI Hummel figurines leaded the line. Now it appears unbelievable that this original contract made more than 80 years ago no longer exist.

Okay, the contract between Sister Hummel and Goebel might no longer exist, but fortunately in February 2009, the production has resumed in Rodental after ending in October 2008. Manufaktur Rodental has taken over all the required rights and manufacturing amenities from former manufacturer Goebel Porcelain Factory. Rodental manufactures with a much leaner workforce, but is focusing more on quality instead of quantity. It is so much that it has hired former staffs that were used by the Goebel Company to maintain the quality and the integrity.

One can just hope about the success of Rodental. The real art of Berta Hummel is something that wins the heart, and they have been beautifully translated by the some of the best porcelain artists into figurines. Now with a change in owners, the future is unforeseen. Will they still have the same prestige? Will the new figurines hold the same quality of workmanship and quality? This loveliest art depicting Bavarian kids in their regular activities will definitely endure and live in the heart of everyone.