Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A rare 'Action Kewpie' all-bisque porcelain figurine featuring a cherubic sprite in a wide-brimmed sun hat, holding a wire-and-mesh butterfly net. The figure is integrated into a tree-trunk-style bud vase adorned with delicate relief-molded purple flowers and a soft pink ombre glaze.
Story
Born in 1909 as magazine illustrations, Kewpies were 'good-deed-doing' sprites meant to teach kindness. Their creator, Rose O'Neill, became the world's first female millionaire illustrator and a fierce suffragist. This specific 'Action' pose captures the whimsical spirit of the pre-war era.
Maker / Origin
Rose O'Neill was a self-taught artistic prodigy who revolutionized the toy industry by patenting the Kewpie in 1913. While she designed them, the finest early examples were produced in Germany by master doll-makers like J.D. Kestner, known for their superior 'bisque' (unglazed) porcelain.
Condition & Value
The bisque appears clean with good color retention in the pink and purple glazes. The butterfly net is fragile; its presence adds value, though any fraying or rust on the wire should be noted. Condition of the delicate floral relief on the vase is a key value driver.
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.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375