COLLECTIBLE BOEHM PORCELAIN:
A Guide to Research and Investment

Boehm porcelain, named after its creator Edward Marshall Boehm, is a type of high-quality porcelain that has been admired and collected by many for its exquisite craftsmanship and beauty. As a collector or investor, it is important to understand the history, significance, and value of these delicate treasures. In this article, we will provide an overview of Boehm porcelain, its history, how to research it, and tips for investment.

What is Boehm Porcelain?

Boehm porcelain is a type of fine porcelain known for its intricate designs and high quality. It is named after its creator, Edward Marshall Boehm, who was an American artist and sculptor. Boehm began experimenting with porcelain in the 1940s and established his own porcelain company in Trenton, New Jersey in 1950. The Boehm porcelain company produced a wide range of figurines, plates, vases, and other decorative items that were sold in high-end retail stores around the world.

Boehm porcelain is known for its delicate beauty, and its designs are often inspired by nature. Many Boehm porcelain pieces feature flowers, birds, and other animals, and are often painted in lifelike colors. Some Boehm porcelain pieces are also gold-plated or decorated with other precious metals, making them even more valuable.

History of Boehm Porcelain

The history of Boehm porcelain begins with Edward Marshall Boehm, who was born in Baltimore in 1913. Boehm was a talented artist and sculptor, and he became interested in porcelain in the 1940s. He began experimenting with porcelain in his studio, creating delicate figurines of birds and other animals. In 1950, Boehm established his own porcelain company in Trenton, New Jersey, and began producing his own porcelain designs.

Boehm porcelain quickly gained a reputation for its high quality and intricate designs. Boehm's designs were often inspired by nature, and he used lifelike colors and textures to create a sense of realism in his porcelain creations. Many of Boehm's pieces were sold in high-end retail stores, including Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Neiman Marcus.

Boehm continued to produce porcelain designs until his death in 1969. After his death, the Boehm porcelain company was sold to a group of investors, and it continued to produce porcelain designs until it closed its doors in 2014.

How to Research Boehm Porcelain

If you are interested in collecting or investing in Boehm porcelain, it is important to do your research. Here are some tips for researching Boehm porcelain:

• Start with the basics: Begin by researching the history of Boehm porcelain and its creator, Edward Marshall Boehm. This will help you understand the significance and value of Boehm porcelain.
• Look for marks and signatures: Boehm porcelain pieces are often marked with the Boehm company logo, as well as the artist's signature. Look for these marks and signatures when researching Boehm porcelain, as they can help you identify the authenticity and value of a piece.
• Check auction records: Auction records can be a valuable resource for researching Boehm porcelain. Look for auctions that specialize in porcelain and collectibles, and search for records of Boehm porcelain pieces that have sold in the past. This can give you an idea of the current market value for Boehm porcelain pieces.
• Consult with experts: If you are serious about collecting or investing in Boehm porcelain, consider consulting with experts in the field. There are many porcelain experts and dealers who can help you identify and value Boehm porcelain pieces, and provide guidance on building a collection or making investments.
• Visit museums and galleries: Visiting museums and galleries that exhibit Boehm porcelain can give you a better understanding of the different styles and designs of Boehm porcelain. This can also help you develop an eye for spotting authentic Boehm porcelain pieces.
• Research online: There are many online resources available for researching Boehm porcelain, including online auction sites, porcelain forums, and collector's websites. These resources can provide valuable information about specific pieces, as well as tips for identifying and valuing Boehm porcelain.

Tips for Investing in Boehm Porcelain

Boehm porcelain can be a valuable investment for collectors, but it is important to approach investment with caution. Here are some tips for investing in Boehm porcelain:

• Buy from reputable dealers: When purchasing Boehm porcelain, make sure you buy from reputable dealers who can guarantee the authenticity of the piece. Be wary of buying from online sellers or auction sites that do not provide clear information about the history or authenticity of the piece.
• Consider the condition of the piece: The condition of the Boehm porcelain piece can have a significant impact on its value. Look for pieces that are in excellent condition, with no chips, cracks, or repairs. Be wary of pieces that have been restored or repaired, as this can significantly reduce their value.
• Research market trends: Keep up-to-date with market trends and prices for Boehm porcelain. This can help you make informed investment decisions and avoid overpaying for pieces.
• Invest in unique pieces: Unique and rare Boehm porcelain pieces are often the most valuable. Look for pieces that are one-of-a-kind or limited edition, as these pieces are likely to appreciate in value over time.
• Invest in pieces with provenance: Boehm porcelain pieces with a clear history and provenance are often more valuable than pieces with unknown or unclear histories. Look for pieces with clear ownership histories or pieces that have been exhibited in museums or galleries.

Conclusion

Boehm porcelain is a beautiful and collectible type of fine porcelain that has been admired and collected by many for its exquisite craftsmanship and beauty. As a collector or investor, it is important to understand the history, significance, and value of these delicate treasures. By researching Boehm porcelain, consulting with experts, and investing with caution, you can build a valuable and rewarding collection of these exquisite pieces.

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