Overview
A charming miniature porcelain figurine featuring a young girl standing beside a cow, decorated with simple cobalt blue underglaze accents.
Preliminary identification
German Porcelain Milkmaid and Cow Figurine, c. 1890-1915
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
The McKinley Tariff Act of 1890 changed the world of antiques forever by requiring imported goods to be marked with their country of origin, which is why we see that crisp 'Germany' embossed on the base.
Maker / Origin
While the specific factory is not identified, this piece almost certainly hails from Thuringia, Germany’s historic porcelain heartland.
Condition & Value
The piece shows typical signs of age, including some 'peppering' (tiny black dots from kiln debris) and minor wear to the glaze. The molding is somewhat soft, which is common for these export pieces. No major chips or cracks are visible in the photos.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD