Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautifully preserved porcelain bas-relief wall plaque depicting the Madonna cradling the infant Jesus, designed after the original artwork of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel. It features the signature soft, matte pastel palette and gentle, stylized features that made Hummel figurines a global phenomenon.
Story
Created in Bavaria during a time of global recovery, this plaque brought quiet comfort to post-war homes. Sister Hummel's art was so beloved that even during WWII, her gentle images of childhood and faith secretly defied the regime. This specific design, HUM 48, remains one of her most enduring religious compositions.
Maker / Origin
Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel (born Berta Hummel) was a German Franciscan sister and artist whose drawings of cheerful children caught the eye of Franz Goebel in the 1930s. Goebel, a master porcelain maker, translated her sketches into three-dimensional ceramic treasures.
Condition & Value
The plaque appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing on the front face. The reverse shows minor shelf wear on the unglazed foot rim and retains its original hanging cord. Excellent condition like this prevents the 30-50% value drop typically caused by crazing or chips.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.