Pattern: Vintage Josef Originals Figurine, The Artist, Careers Series, Signed
Vintage: 1960's
Made in: Japan
Details: A very rare find, this artist is much sought after. Before we begin, please note there are condition issues, see below. This figurine from Josef Originals is titled The Artist and is from the Careers Series that included: The Teacher, The Nurse, The Opera Singer, The Florist and The Actress. There is so much gorgeous detail on this figurine, the beautiful dress peeking out from under the artist coat, the curls in her hair, the large feathered hat, it's just beautiful! It has the desired Josef Originals signature plus a "C" within a circle on the unglazed bottom. She also retains the original black foil "Japan" sticker. We have seen these sell for over $80 even with chips and the missing artist brush. This one has a couple of condition issues, please see below for details.
Material: Porcelain
Dimensions: 7.0 inches Tall, 6.0 inches Wide (at its widest point, skirt) and 4.75 inches Deep (at its deepest point, skirt).
Condition: Vintage - Used. Average Condition. The artist brush is missing, and her thumb is broken on her right hand. Otherwise, there are no chips, no scratches and no crazing. Please review all pictures and make sure you love this item before purchasing, we can't accept returns. All sales final. Please remember these are VINTAGE and ANTIQUE items, they are NOT new, every effort has been made to show any scratches, wear and tear and imperfections.
These figurines were designed by Muriel Joseph George during the end of World War II. (A misspelling by the label printer changed the name forever to Josef). Muriel's first designs were produced between 1945 and 1962 in California before moving the manufacturing to Japan in 1960. Originally she made a large variety of items like: cats, dogs, elephants, kangaroos, birds but also children like these birthday angels, first communion, confirmation, sweet 16, bride and groom, and even some musical pieces. Muriel retired in 1981, the company was sold to George Good in 1983. In the mid 1980's the company was sold to Applause (called Southland Corporation at the time). Applause filed for bankruptcy in 2004, so Josef Originals became part of Dakin. The Josef Originals name is now owned by Russ Bernie. Muriel passed away in 1992.
