Goebel Hummel Figurine 'Helping Mother' (M.I. Hummel 110)

This is a vintage porcelain figurine produced by Goebel in Germany, titled 'Helping Mother' (also known as 'Let's Help Mother'). The piece depicts a young girl in traditional dress, wearing an orange headscarf, a dark vest, and a green patterned apron over a white blouse, intently sweeping with a large broom. It is made of fine earthenware (porcelain) with a characteristic matte finish. The hand-painted color palette displays muted, earthy tones typical of mid-20th-century Hummel pieces. The figurine stands on a circular, unglazed ivory-colored base. This specific model, number 110, was originally modeled by Arthur Moeller in 1938. The craftsmanship is evident in the delicate facial features and the textured modeling of the broom bristles. Based on the style and coloration, this example likely dates from the late 1960s to the 1980s. The condition appears fair to good: there is visible wear on the tip of the broom's handle and head, suggesting slight paint loss or a minor chip. The surface shows a light layer of dust and minor scuffing on the base, but it lacks major structural cracks or professional repairs, maintaining a consistent patina of age.

I have conducted a visual examination of the Goebel Hummel figurine 'Helping Mother' (M.I. Hummel 110). Based on the 1938 Arthur Moeller mold, this specific iteration displays the characteristic matte finish and hand-painted application consistent with production from the late TMK-4 (1964-1972) to TMK-6 (1979-1990) eras. The palette is hallmarks of middle-period Goebel production, though the condition is noted as 'fair' due to visible paint loss and minor chipping on the broom handle, which is a common site for trauma on this specific model. The market for mid-century Hummels remains saturated; while 'Helping Mother' is a classic motif, its high production volume significantly limits rarity. Comparables for this model in pristine condition typically reach $80-$100, but the current specimen’s condition issues and the general decline in secondary market demand for porcelain collectibles necessitate a more conservative valuation. Factors impacting value include the visible wear and lack of original box or paperwork. Limitations: This appraisal is based strictly on photographic evidence. I cannot verify the underside 'Bee' mark or incised '110' mold number to pinpoint the exact trademark year. A physical inspection is required to check for 'crazing' (fine glaze cracks), professional restoration under UV light, or base-level repairs that are invisible in images. Final authentication would require hands-on verification of the porcelain density and a definitive identification of the factory mark.