... Read more OMG, you guys, I'm still buzzing from my last yard sale adventure, and I just had to share more about my process for finding and identifying these adorable vintage porcelain clowns! It's such a thrill when you stumble upon a collection like the one I found, and I know many of you are curious about starting your own or finding hidden gems.
First off, where do I find these treasures? Yard sales, estate sales, and local thrift stores are my absolute favorites. You never know what you'll discover! I always keep an eye out for anything marked 'porcelain figurine' or 'vintage collectibles.' Sometimes, the best finds are tucked away in dusty boxes. Online marketplaces like Etsy or eBay are great for research, but nothing beats the hunt in person!
Once I get them home, the real detective work begins. For my new 'clown log part 2' additions, it was especially fun. Take Fancy, for example – this sweet little porcelain clown in blue overalls. I actually found a listing that helped me identify its potential age, though I'm taking that 'mid-20th century' info with a grain of salt until I can confirm more. Then there's Valle, my little mystery clown holding a 'Love You' heart. Sometimes, despite endless searching on Pinterest or Google Images, you just can't find a match, which makes them even more unique in my collection!
But then you get lucky, like with Harry, my Enesco clown from 1985. The bottom markings are crucial! Always check for maker's marks, copyright dates, and artist signatures. The research helped me remember seeing that Enesco mark, and knowing the year immediately narrows down your search. I even found a sold-out listing for a similar Enesco 1985 Clown Figurine, which was super helpful for context.
My absolute favorites from this haul are Nipper & Bo. They're part of the 'Clownin Around' collection by R. Dakin & Co., designed by Marilyn Conklin in 1984. Identifying them was a breeze thanks to the clear markings on the bottom: '©Marilyn Conklin-1984 R. Dakin & Co Product of Taiwan Non-Toxic Pigment #52-0055 Nipper & Bo.' This level of detail is a collector's dream! It tells you everything you need to know about its origin and helps confirm its authenticity.
If you're getting into collecting vintage porcelain clowns, here's my advice:
Always inspect for damage: Chips, cracks, or fading paint can significantly affect value.
Look for maker's marks: These are usually on the base and are your best friend for identification. Brands like Enesco, R. Dakin & Co., Goebel, and Lefton are well-known.
Research on the go: Use your phone to quickly search for similar items. Even if you don't buy, it helps you learn.
Connect with other collectors: Joining online groups or forums (like the Lemon8 #clowncollection community!) can provide invaluable insights and help you identify tricky pieces.
Collect what you love: Ultimately, the joy comes from the collection itself, not just its monetary value.
Happy hunting, fellow vintage porcelain clown enthusiasts! Can't wait to hear about your finds!
Welcome! Can’t wait to see more from you in the future💛