Hochst: German Porcelain from the Electoral Mainz Factory
Hochst porcelain was produced at the factory established in 1746 in Hochst am Main, near Frankfurt, Germany, under the patronage of the Elector of Mainz. The factory operated until 1796, producing some of the finest German porcelain figures and tableware of the 18th century. Hochst is particularly celebrated for its delicate figure groups, which rival those of Meissen and Nymphenburg in quality and artistic merit.
Identifying Hochst Porcelain
The primary factory mark is a six-spoked wheel, taken from the arms of the Electorate of Mainz. Early pieces (1746-1758) bear an incised or painted wheel mark, sometimes with a crown above. Later pieces use an underglaze blue wheel mark. Key modellers whose work commands premium prices include Johann Peter Melchior (active 1767-1779), Laurentius Russinger, and Johann Friedrich von Luck.
The paste of genuine Hochst porcelain has a warm, creamy tone with a smooth, glassy glaze. Figures typically stand on rococo scroll bases with characteristic grassy mounds. Beware of 19th-century reproductions by Dressel, Kister & Co. and the revived Hochst factory (from 1965), which reused the wheel mark but with additional letters.
Types and Notable Productions
- Figure groups: Pastoral scenes, commedia dell'arte characters, children at play, and allegorical subjects modelled by Melchior
- Tableware: Tea and coffee services, plates, and tureens with finely painted floral sprays, landscapes, and figural scenes
- Faience (pre-porcelain): The factory initially produced tin-glazed earthenware (1746-1750) before achieving true porcelain
Auction Price Ranges
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Melchior figure groups (documented) | $8,000 - $60,000+ |
| Single figures (18th century) | $2,000 - $15,000 |
| Tableware pieces (plates, cups) | $500 - $4,000 |
| Hochst faience | $800 - $5,000 |
| 19th-century reproductions | $100 - $800 |
| Modern revival pieces (post-1965) | $50 - $300 |
Condition Factors
Hochst figures are extremely fragile, and original 18th-century examples frequently show restored fingers, flower petals, or extremities. Professional restoration that is well-executed reduces value by roughly 30-50%, while crude repairs or missing elements can diminish value by 70% or more. Original unfired enamel colors are susceptible to wear, and pieces retaining crisp, bright polychrome decoration are at a significant premium. Check bases for signs of grinding or alteration, which may indicate a removed or altered mark.
Collecting Tips
Focus on documented Melchior figures if seeking investment-grade pieces, as his work is the most researched and consistently appreciated. Study the published catalogues by Ruckert and the Hochst museum collection to familiarize yourself with authentic examples. The factory's relatively short production period (50 years) means genuine pieces are scarce, making provenance from known collections particularly valuable. Pairs and complete groups always command multiples of single-figure prices. When buying at auction, request condition reports and UV photography to reveal restorations invisible to the naked eye.