Goebel Hummel Figurines: Heavenly Angel (HUM 21/0)

This is a vintage Goebel Hummel porcelain figurine titled 'Heavenly Angel' (model number HUM 21/0). The piece features a young, stylized angel with short blonde/brown hair looking down with a serene facial expression while holding a lit white candle with a yellow flame. The angel is dressed in an seafoam green gown adorned with small yellow stars. Her wings show a soft multicolored palette of blue, yellow, and orange at the tips. The figurine stands approximately 4.25 to 4.5 inches tall on a square, off-white base. It is crafted from fine earthenware and displays the soft, characteristic matte glaze finish and hand-painted details synonymous with the M.I. Hummel brand produced in Germany. The craftsmanship is evidenced by the detailed sculpting of the gown's folds and the delicate painting of the eyelashes and rosy cheeks. While the underside marks are not visible in this angle, the style and '21/0' size designation suggest a mid-20th-century production. The condition appears to be excellent for its age; there is no visible crazing on the gown or face—a common issue for older Hummels—and the colors remain vibrant with no apparent chips or repairs. The item showcases the high-quality hand-finishing standard of the W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik factory.

I have examined the digital representation of the 'Heavenly Angel' (HUM 21/0). Based on the visual evidence, the piece displays the high-quality hand-painted aesthetics and matte finish characteristic of W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik. The condition appears exemplary, showing no signs of the 'crazing' (fine surface cracking) common to earthenware of this era, which significantly helps retain its value. The '21/0' designation indicates the standard 4.5-inch size, a popular scale among collectors. The market for Hummel figurines has seen a significant softening over the last two decades. While 'Heavenly Angel' is an iconic and beloved motif, specifically for holiday displays, it was produced in high volume. The secondary market is currently saturated with 'standard' marks (TMK-3 through TMK-6). To reach the higher end of the valuation range, this piece would likely need to bear a 'Full Bee' (TMK-2) or 'Crown' (TMK-1) trademark on the underside, which correlates with mid-1940s to early 1950s production. Limitations: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A definitive authentication requires an in-person inspection to verify the 'incised' mold numbers and the specific Goebel backstamp to determine the exact era of production. Furthermore, a physical 'ring test' and UV light (blacklight) examination are necessary to confirm the absence of professional restorations or hidden hairlines that are not visible in photographs. Provenance or original box documentation, while not required, would provide additional historical context for the piece.