Hummel Figurine 'Little Red Riding Hood' or 'Doll Mother'

This item is a ceramic or porcelain figurine, characteristic of the 'Hummel' style, depicting a young girl holding a smaller doll. The main figure, likely portraying Little Red Riding Hood given the red 'hood' or shawl on her head, has fair skin, pink blushing cheeks, and blonde hair visible under her head covering. Her mouth is slightly open, hinting at a childlike expression. She wears a dark top, possibly an apron or part of a dress, and a green skirt. Her legs are encased in light-colored socks or stockings, and she wears brown, boot-like shoes. The smaller doll she cradles appears to be dressed in a light blue or green outfit. The figurine stands on a light green, oval-shaped base, simulating a grassy patch. The craftsmanship suggests a hand-painted finish with a glossy glaze. There are no immediately visible chips, cracks, or significant repair marks from the provided image, indicating relatively good condition. The overall aesthetic points to an mid-20th century European artistic tradition, specifically German, often associated with Goebel's Hummel line. While no specific maker's marks are visible, the characteristic style, facial features, and attire are strong indicators of a Hummel or Hummel-inspired piece. The piece exhibits common features of Hummel figurines, such as rounded childlike forms and soft color palettes, and appears to be in collectible condition given the clear details and apparent lack of major damage.

Based on my examination of the provided image, this figurine is readily identifiable as the M.I. Hummel model #330, commonly known as 'Doll Mother' or 'Puppenmutter'. The visual characteristics, including the soft color palette, the girl's facial expression, and the style of dress, are consistent with authentic pieces produced by the Goebel company. The figurine appears to be in very good to excellent condition, with a glossy finish and no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. The colors are vibrant and the details are sharp. The market for most common Hummel figurines has seen a significant downturn from its peak. While pieces like 'Doll Mother' remain popular among collectors, the secondary market is saturated. Current market comparables for this model, in similar condition, typically sell in the $45 to $80 range. The final price within this range is often determined by the specific trademark (TMK) on the underside of the base, which indicates the production era. Older trademarks, such as the 'Crown' or 'Full Bee', generally command higher prices than later ones from the 1970s through the 1990s. This appraisal is limited by the inability to physically inspect the item. A definitive authentication and more precise valuation would require an in-person examination to verify the trademark, check for any hidden restorations under UV light, and confirm the absence of subtle crazing. Without seeing the maker's mark on the base, I am providing a value based on the more common, later production models.