Hi Suzanne,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Hummel figurines are a popular line of porcelain collectibles that depict children in various endearing and nostalgic scenes. They are named after Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel, a German Franciscan nun and artist who created the original artwork that inspired the figurines.

The history of Hummel figurines dates back to the early 20th century. In the 1930s, Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel's artwork caught the attention of Franz Goebel, the owner of a porcelain company in Germany. Goebel recognized the charm and appeal of Hummel's illustrations and sought to transform them into three-dimensional figurines.

The first Hummel figurines were introduced in 1935. They were made of porcelain and featured hand-painted details. The figurines depicted children engaged in various activities like playing instruments, gardening, reading, or simply engaging in innocent play. Sister Hummel's artwork emphasized the purity and simplicity of childhood, and these qualities were beautifully captured in the figurines.

Hummel figurines gained widespread popularity, both in Germany and internationally, and became highly collectible. They were especially beloved in the United States, where they found a large and enthusiastic market. The figurines were admired for their intricate craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the emotional connection they evoked.

Collectors often focused on acquiring specific figurines or completing sets, and while rare or discontinued pieces can become highly sought-after and valuable, the vast majority of figurines remain modestly valued.

It's worth noting that in 2009, the Goebel company announced that it would cease production of Hummel figurines due to financial difficulties. However, the trademark rights and production were subsequently acquired by the Manufaktur Rödental company, ensuring that new Hummel figurines continue to be made to this day.

Hummel figurines remain a beloved collectible for enthusiasts around the world. Their timeless appeal, nostalgic charm, and association with the innocence of childhood have made them enduring treasures for many collectors. Whether you appreciate them for their artistic value or sentimental connection, Hummel figurines continue to capture the hearts of both new and seasoned collectors.

The "Stormy Weather" figurine was modeled by master sculptor Reinhold Unger in 1937; it has also been known as "Under One Roof." The figurine depicts a young boy and girl under an umbrella. Over the decades, various molds and slight design changes were introduced. Different sizes were produced, though this particular figure did not change much, ranging only from 4-1/2 inches tall to 6-1/4 inches. The lack of an underglaze blue Bee mark suggests this is an early model, now worth between $60 and $90 at auction (it's worth pointing out that most Hummel figures, the majority of which were made in the 1960s-80s, are worth less than $20 at auction today, though some private sellers may ask more for ones they are selling.

Based on the photographs and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An MI Hummel porcelain collectible "Stormy Weather" figurine
made by Goebels, Germany, bearing an impressed mark in use in the late 1930s and early 1940s
model #71, depicting a girl and a boy under an umbrella, on a rectangular base (divided underneath), impressed on the back MI Hummel and with impressed mark underneath.
Height: 6-1/2 inches; width: 4-1/4 inches
PROVENANCE: inherited
$60-90*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia