The "Josef Originals" figurines, particularly the "Birthstone Dolls" series, represent a charming and collectible facet of mid-20th-century ceramic artistry. While not gemstones in the traditional sense, these dolls incorporated simulated birthstones, making them intrinsically linked to the concept of birthstone symbolism and gifting. This article will explore the history of Josef Originals, focusing on the creation and significance of the Birthstone Dolls, their production, and their current status within the collector’s market, based on available information.
The Origins of Josef Originals
Josef Originals emerged from the creative partnership of Muriel Joseph and her husband, Tom George, beginning in 1946. Initially, the couple worked from their garage in Arcadia, California, crafting pottery figurines. Muriel possessed the artistic talent for modeling the clay, while Tom translated her designs into molds for production. A serendipitous misspelling on the label for their first commercial figurine – Muriel’s maiden name, “Josef,” was incorrectly printed – led to the adoption of the company name "Josef Originals." This accidental branding proved memorable and contributed to the company’s identity.
The early years saw a gradual expansion of production, eventually requiring a move to a rented building to accommodate the growing demand for their charming figurines. The company’s output encompassed a variety of themes and designs, but it was the introduction of the Birthstone Dolls that would establish a particularly popular and enduring line.
The Birthstone Dolls: A Celebration of Months and Gems
The Birthstone Dolls, introduced as part of the Josef Originals collection, quickly became the company’s most sought-after series. Each doll was designed to represent a specific month of the year, and held a flower featuring a simulated birthstone at its center. This design cleverly linked the figurines to the tradition of birthstones, making them ideal gifts for birthdays and special occasions.
Another popular series, "Birthday Girls," further emphasized the connection to birthdays, with each doll standing behind a number indicating age, ranging from 1 to 16. This demonstrates a clear marketing strategy focused on celebrating milestones and personalizing gifts.
Production and Manufacturing
The production of Josef Originals evolved over time. Initially, some figures were made in Japan in 1959. However, by 1962, all production was relocated to Japan. This shift in manufacturing location is a key detail for collectors, as markings on the figurines can indicate their origin and approximate age. Early pieces were marked "Germany," while later pieces were marked "made in" with the country name, often Japan. Post-World War II markings included "Made in U.S. Zone Germany" (1945-1949), "Western Zone Germany" (1949-1990), and "Made in Occupied Japan" (1945 to 1952). The addition of a ZIP code to U.S. addresses after 1963 also provides a dating clue.
Identifying and Valuing Josef Originals
Identifying authentic Josef Originals and determining their value requires attention to detail. The presence of the "Josef Originals" mark on the bottom of the figurine is crucial. However, the style of the mark and the country of origin indicated can further refine the dating process.
According to available information, undamaged figurines from the "Housekeepers" series, which includes figures titled "Frying Egg" and "Drying Dishes," are typically valued between $25 and $35. While specific values for the Birthstone Dolls are not detailed, their popularity suggests they may command higher prices, particularly for rare or well-preserved examples. The condition of the figurine is paramount; as advised, repainting a metal doll head destroys its collector value.
The Collector's Market and Legacy
Josef Originals figurines, including the Birthstone Dolls, have established a dedicated following among collectors. Antique shows, flea markets, and auctions serve as key venues for buying and selling these pieces. The volume of mail received by antique experts like the Kovels demonstrates the continued interest in these collectibles. The Kovels emphasize the importance of documenting provenance and markings for accurate appraisal.
The enduring appeal of Josef Originals lies in their charming designs, nostalgic connection to mid-century aesthetics, and the personal significance associated with birthstone symbolism. They represent a tangible link to a bygone era of handcrafted artistry and thoughtful gift-giving.
Conclusion
The Josef Originals Birthstone Dolls, while not traditional gemstones, occupy a unique space within the world of collectibles and birthstone lore. Born from a creative partnership and a fortunate misspelling, these figurines captured the hearts of gift-givers and collectors alike. Their production history, evolving markings, and enduring charm continue to fascinate enthusiasts today. The dolls serve as a delightful reminder of mid-century artistry and the enduring power of personalized gifts.