How to identify old ceramic figurines

Start with one clear answer

To identify old ceramic figurines, start with the base. Look for a maker mark, mold number, model name, country mark, artist mark, or sticker, then compare the subject, pose, finish, and size.

Recent auction records show Royal Doulton, Lladro, Bunnykins, Josef Originals, and other figurines selling differently. The subject and maker matter, but damage and common production can keep values modest.

Quick identification checklist

• Photograph the full figurine, base, mark, model number, subject, face, hands, accessories, and underside.
• Measure height and note whether fingers, petals, ears, instruments, umbrellas, or bases are chipped or repaired.
• Separate porcelain figurines, earthenware figures, character jugs, animal figures, Hummel, Royal Doulton, Lladro/NAO, and later giftware.

Key value and identity drivers

• Maker and line: Royal Doulton, Lladro, Hummel, Beswick, Bunnykins, and Josef Originals have different collectors.
• Subject and rarity: discontinued models, unusual subjects, large sizes, and clean boxes can help.
• Condition: tiny chips, repairs, missing flowers, broken fingers, and base cracks can sharply reduce value.

Condition and authenticity cautions

Figurines often hide small repairs. Check fingers, petals, ears, instruments, handles, bases, and old glue under angled light.

When to use the free screener

Use the free screener when you need a first-pass identity, pattern, mark, or category read before deciding whether the object deserves a paid appraisal. It is especially useful when you have clear photos but do not yet know what the piece is.

When to get a professional appraisal

Use a professional appraisal when the piece may be valuable, when you need a signed report for insurance, estate, donation, sale, or dispute use, or when authenticity, restoration, or provenance changes the answer.

Photo checklist

• Full object or full set, front, back, base, side profile, interior, and scale reference.
• Close-ups of marks, pattern names, artist signatures, impressed numbers, labels, lids, handles, rims, feet, and damage.
• Any boxes, receipts, certificates, family notes, past appraisal paperwork, or auction/dealer labels.

Related guides

Pottery and porcelain guides, Free ceramic appraisal online, How to identify pottery marks, Pottery marks identification guide, Value of old figurines, Value of old Hummel figurines, Value of old Lladro figurines.

FAQ

Where do I find a figurine model number?

Look on the underside, base rim, back of the base, or old label. Royal Doulton often uses HN numbers.

Are old ceramic figurines valuable?

Some are, but maker, model, rarity, condition, and demand determine value.

What damage matters most?

Broken fingers, petals, ears, accessories, base cracks, restoration, and missing parts can materially reduce value.