Porcelain figure, religious

Item Description
This piece is a white porcelain statue depicting the Holy Family: Joseph, Mary, and the child Jesus. It measures approximately 9.5 inches in height, 7 inches in width, and 4.5 inches in depth. The base is marked with the number “1612.” The statue shows evidence of minor damage: two fingers are missing from Joseph’s hand, and part of Jesus’s hand is chipped. Aside from these losses and some surface soiling, the figure remains in fair condition, with no major cracks or structural issues.

Likely History and Origin
Religious porcelain sculptures like this were commonly produced by European and American ceramic manufacturers during the late 19th and throughout the 20th century. The number “1612” on the bottom is likely a mold or model number rather than a date mark. Though there are well-known manufacturers (such as those from France, Italy, Germany, or the United States) that produced religious figures in bulk, without a clear maker’s mark it is difficult to conclusively identify the kiln or company. These Holy Family statues were popular devotional items, often found in churches, private chapels, or on home altars.

Condition

• Overall: Fair.
• Specific Issues: Missing fingers on Joseph’s hand and damage to Jesus’s hand. Needs light cleaning to remove surface dust or dirt.
• Structure: No major cracks or repairs.

Current Value
In its current condition, and with the maker unidentified, comparable porcelain Holy Family statues typically sell in a modest price range. One might expect a fair market value (e.g., in a local antiques shop or online marketplace) of about $30–$60. Pieces with no damage, an identifiable maker, and more refined detailing sometimes command higher prices.

Recommendations

• Cleaning: A gentle cleaning with a mild detergent and soft cloth or toothbrush can help restore some of the original appearance.
• Professional Appraisal: If you wish to investigate whether this piece has any special provenance or if it might be part of a notable manufacturer’s series, consulting a professional antiques or religious-art specialist is recommended. They could more accurately identify the origin and assess if there is any collector’s interest beyond the typical decorative or devotional market.

Overall, this is a charming religious statue with modest monetary value but strong devotional or sentimental appeal. A professional appraisal could help determine a more precise value if there is reason to believe it is from a renowned factory or has a distinguished provenance.