Presenting a magnificent, exhibition-scale late 19th-century Victorian figural bisque porcelain parlor centerpiece manufactured by the celebrated artisans of Gebrüder Heubach in Lichte, Thuringia, Germany. This exceptionally heavy masterwork weighs over 10 pounds and spans an impressive 13 inches at the base, standing nearly a foot tall.
The centerpiece features an incredibly ornate, deeply sculpted figural group typical of Heubach's premium late-Victorian output, rendering classical romantic/cherub motifs with the anatomical precision and expressive characteristics for which the firm is globally renowned. The surface treatment boasts a delicate, unglazed matte bisque finish executed in a soft, quintessential Victorian palette of pastel creams, pinks, and blues, highlighted by hand-applied gilt accents.
The underside features the incised factory mold number 173 (or 175), a cursive finisher's mark, and stamped blue underglaze markings corresponding to the historic Heubach Sunrise emblem. This is a investment-grade specimen of German porcelain art, perfectly suited for serious collectors of Parian, piano babies, or luxury Victorian decorative arts.
Reference
For deep-dive context on Gebrüder Heubach's mold numbering systems, production techniques, and the historical classification of their figural bisque porcelain wares, see:
-
Heubach Character Dolls & Figurines by Lydia Richter; published by Hobby House Press. Page 42 outlines the technical use of the stamped blue "Sunburst" mark (used from 1882–1915) alongside incised model numbers and decorators' cursive tallies found on large-scale ornamental luxury wares.
Technical Specifications
-
Material: Authentic Fine Bisque Porcelain (Unglazed Parian-type body)
-
Origin: Lichte, Thuringia, Germany
-
Manufacturer: Gebrüder Heubach
-
Estimated Age: Circa 1885–1910 (Late Victorian / Edwardian Era)
-
Mold/Model Number: 173 / 175
-
Height: 11.75 inches
-
Base Width: 13.00 inches
-
Weight: 10 lbs 7.1 oz (167.1 oz)
Condition Report
This antique centerpiece is in Excellent Vintage/Antique Condition.
-
Surfaces: The unglazed bisque porcelain retains an exceptional, clean original surface with beautiful matte texture and minimal handling wear. Hand-painted cold enamels and gilt highlights remain remarkably bright and intact for a piece of this age.
-
Structural Integrity: Free of post-production chips, breaks, or external restoration.
-
Interior Detail: There is a faint, shallow linear mark on the interior bowl. Upon close physical inspection, this reads closer to an internal surface scratch or a stable, benign factory drying line formed during the firing process rather than a structural post-production hairline crack. It does not go through to the exterior or compromise the structural stability of this substantial 10-pound piece.
Shipping calculated by eBay/USPS/UPS based on your ZIP code.
Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.
Customer Service Commitment
We truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you'd like additional photos or have questions about an item, we're more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible--certainly before submitting feedback--so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we'll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.
Styled With