I bought 15 Ceramic Figurines from the 1940s
So this is a video about a purchase I probably wouldn't have made if I knew I would have to replace my computer screen and potentially buy a stand in computer while it is getting repaired (kind of kidding).
Also - I don't think this will appeal to many people, I'm aware it isn't my usual content and I won't be offended by people not watching it. It's also not what I'd hoped to post today, but because of the aforementioned computer problems my sewing videos for the month aren't finished yet. But they will be up this week! So please don't give up on me! Up until today I was unable to access all that footage.
But anyway, I like making videos about things I'm passionate about, and that extends beyond sewing. One of my loves is antiquing, and collecting. And one of the things I collect are Florence Ceramics figurines from the 1940s-1960s. These were based on Godey's fashion plates and often featured mid 19th century inspired dresses. The figurines are completely hand painted, with charming details like bright red lips and pink fingernails. Most have articulated fingers, applied flowers, and ceramic lace ruffles too!
I absolutely adore these figurines, and recently had the opportunity to purchase a large quantity for just the price of shipping, which is crazy since some were in mint condition or slightly damaged but quite rare. I was ecstatic and picked out 13 from the hundreds avalible. And two others, which were more expensive but in perfect condition and very rare.
I wanted to film the process of unboxing them...partially to justify the purchase, but also because it made me smile so maybe it will make one or two other people smile too.
Also, I really hope this doesn't come off as bragging or anything. It isn't intended that way at all, this was just a cool opportunity that I took advantage of as a collector and wanted to share!
I filmed this the day after we got home from PA at 7am (which is why I could access and edit these files) so my enthusiasm is dimmed slightly but I enjoyed myself very much. It was a nice thing to come home to!
Comments (29)
I didn’t expect to really enjoy watching this video so much! It’s just so contagious hearing and seeing someone being so passionate. So absolutely thanks for sharing your passion with us. You asked if we collect something “strange”. I guess my collection of large LEGO Technic models accounts for strange. Considering I’m slightly over the age for which they probable make the sets. I just claim I’m still a child at heart.
I find that ceramic figurines and porcelain dolls tend to be better dressed than most people of their era
I thoroughly enjoyed the video. I collect japanese dolls. It was enjoyable seeing another doll collector talk so passionately about her collection. I also agree with the others who said they would like to see you recreate one of the dresses the dolls are wearing.
Angela-I have just seen your wonderful collection of figurines!! They are so gorgeous!! I collected Christmas Village for several years. Several of my pieces were finally retired. They would break the mold and only what was on the market was what was available. I do not have them any longer. HOWEVER, I really love the one that you stated you may consider selling because she is a different color of blue. I would love to have her (if you do sell). I love the hat and her parasol. Blue is also my favorite color. I you do please let me know at Hebert.Brent@gmail.com Thank Gena
I thoroughly enjoyed this video! While I'm not personally interested in collecting figurines, I do find them fascinating. I'd love to hear more about your collection and about the dolls in general, especially comparing dolls from the same mould side by side: it'd be so interesting to see how different effects were achieved through various techniques.
You should make these dresses into a series like the Barbie series!
These are absolutely stunning and you look so happy unboxing them! If it interested you, I would love to see you do recreations of some of your favourite figurine outfits. I love your Barbie outfit series and I think doing these would have a similar feel.
I absolutely adored this video Angela. Even though I am not a collector of these figurines...I LOVE them. They look amazing on display in your sewing room. You did a phenomenal job!
I'm not collecting figurines myself (I think I'm just terrified I'd break them while dusting) but this was a very interesting and enjoyable video - I think you underestimate your fanbase's love for all things pretty that do not necessarily have to be related to sewing! I'm sure I'm not the first one to suggest this but I would love to see you trying to recreate some of the outfits if you're ever considering that.
Dusting isn't so bad, but washing them is a nightmare. I'm so afraid I'll hit them on the tap! Thank you so much, I'm glad you liked it. And I would LOVE to recreate some of the outfits!
What fun! Your enthusiasm is delightful and the figurines make me wish I had lots of space and no cats 😼 I collect teapots but they live in a glass cabinet (safe from naughty boys) and get used periodically.
I think most people store them in curios, packed in a little tighter so they don't take up so much room. And it protects them from dust...and cats! That's sweet - my mom has a little tea cup collection and they are so darling. I imagine teapots are just as nice!
I don't know anything about these figurines, but I was blown away by your knowledge and the intricacies of them. Very beautiful and delicate, I can see why you love collecting them! I would have loves to see lady sitting on her couch, I feel she would be grant and elegant! Love this video, it's great to see something different that you are passionate about. :)
Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed it :)
Only having to pay for shipping?! Yeah, I don't blame you for going a bit wild! LOL
Right?! And someone else got EIGHT boxes - that's like 32 figurines. So I was restrained all things considered (or so i'm telling myself).
1) You should make Susan's dress (the lady with the basket), you obviously love it the most out of all the dresses on your figurines. 2) If you made Cleopatra's outfit, I would DIE because OMG it's gorgeous and you can totally pull off that headpiece! 3) Please explain the hat you're wearing in the video. I'm trying to get behind it but am having a difficult time LOL. And I love most of your hat purchases!
Noo I'd say Lady Diana has my favorite dress! But they would both be fun to recreate. I'm not entirely sure how Cleopatra's outfit works or how to go about creating it but it's definitely gorgeous! Nooo that hat is amazing. It's silk and from the 1930s and has THREE bows! What's not to love?!
This is lovely. You’re amazing.
This was so fun to watch! I LOVE that Cleopatra she is so pretty!!!!!
I have always admired the figurines that I could see in your sewing room and little did I know you had even more than we could see there. It must have been hard not to buy all of those figurines that were on sale for such little money. But of course buying even 15 figurines times at least 25 dollars... That adds up! Lol. As for me, I love any of the videos that you make. Whether it is something like this, something with sewing or anything else. I just enjoy watching it and listening to your voice. It somehow feels so relaxing.
Yeah the are hiding in every corner and on top of most of my cabinets haha! It DEFINITELY adds up, but it was such a good deal that I couldn't resist. And that's sweet, thank you!
Although I'm not into ceramic figurines myself, I love your enthousiasm. You can always share more of these video's and I'll watch them. And I do agree, Marc Anthony and Cleopatra are stunning. I myself love German pottery and depression glass.
I'm so glad you had something fun to come home to, with all that computer stress going on! I hope you'll be about to catch up and things will get back to feeling more normal for you soon.
Ok now that I've also watched the video ... How long until you start s
I collect antique things connected to the hand work I like to do...sewing machines, a 100 year old sock machine, a floor loom from the 40’s, sewing, knitting, crochet books from the past some 100+years. I collect vintage and antique cameras too. I am obsessed with both using and collecting these items. I’m a huge bibliophile as well. Super cute dress! 😉
That's awesome! I love collections that are functional, and it's so nice it's related to a hobby of yours too!
Please continue to make non-sewing related videos about things you enjoy! While I initially began watching you for the sewing content, your personality is what has kept me watching and I think that’s the case for a lot of viewers. It’s a huge mood boost to see someone get excited about something they love and I often learn new things and find new interests! I think sharing things like this even if they are more niche puts more positivity in the world. Keep it up Angela!
How wonderful!! These are beautiful. And I love hearing how knowledgeable you are about them.