More Bisque from Old Molds Already in the Market

Bisque figures made from old molds were found in the market. New figures are marked "Germany" with impressed lettering and four digit numbers just like original figures made from ca. 1880 through the 1920s.

New pieces arrive with a blue backstamp of the importer but the new mark is easily removed leaving only the permanent impressed marks. Since new figures carry the same permanent markings as old, markings are not a reliable test of age. The finish on new figures is slightly rougher than original surfaces, but new figures can easily be smoothed using common household items. Holiday figures, comic characters and Kewpies were also expected to be reproduced.

The new figures are made in Germany. Makers claim they own over 30,000 original molds. Prices for new mermaids average $45 each; new bathing beauties average $65. Comparable originals sell for $125 to $225.

Fig. 1 Seated bathing beauty; 2¾″ tall, 4″ long. Blond hair, bathing cap.

Fig. 2 Bathing beauty lying on stomach; 2″ tall, 5″ long.

Fig. 3 Standing bathing beauty with towel; 4½″ tall.

Fig. 4 Bathing beauty lying on back; 1¾″ tall, 6½ ″ long.

Fig. 5 Merman on seal, about 4″.

Fig. 6 Mermaid on seal, about 4″.

Fig. 7 Mermaid seated on dolphins figure about 3″.

Fig. 8 Merman seated on dolphins figure about 3″

Fig. 9 Mermaid reclining on elbow; 3¼″,

Fig. 10 Impressed "Germany" mark on new bisque pieces; four digit number varies. New pieces are also stamped in blue ink with the mark in Fig. 11 which is easily removed.

Fig. 11